Horsemen's Corral March 2023

The Horsemen’s Corral is the official publication for the following clubs:

Ashland Paint & Plain Saddle Club

Avon Lake Saddle Club

Black Swamp Driving Club

Buckeye Equestrian Association

Central Ohio Saddle Club Association

Central Ohio Wagoneers

Classical Attraction Dressage Society

Colorado Ranger Horse Association

Creek Side Mounted Archery

District One National Show Horse

Dusty Boots Riding Club

Flatlanders Dressage & Combined

Training Association, Inc.

Geauga Horse & Pony Association

Great Lakes Appaloosa Horse Club

Hoosier Quarter Pony Association

Knox County Horse Park

Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros

Massillon Saddle Club

Miami Valley Horse Show Association

Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.

Mid-Eastern Farriers Association

Mid Ohio Dressage Association

Mid-Ohio Marauders

National Pole Bending Association

Northern Ohio Dressage Association

Northern Kentucky Horse Network

Northern Ohio Miniature Horse Club

Northern Ohio Outlaws

Ohio Appaloosa Association

O.H.I.O. EXCA

Ohio Foundation Quarter Horse Assoc.

Ohio Haflinger Association

Ohio High School Rodeo Association

Ohio Horseman’s Council

Ohio Gaited Horse Trailriders

Ohio Morgan Horse Association

Ohio Paint Horse Club

Ohio Quarter Horse Association

Ohio Ranch Horse Association

Ohio State Buckskin Association

Ohio Western Horse Association, Inc.

Ottawa County Horse Foundation

Ohio Valley Team Penning Association

Pinto Horse Association of Ohio

Premier Mount N Trail

Pure Gold Stables

Tri-County Trail Association

Tri-State Rodeo Association

Wayne County Saddle Club

Western Reserve Carriage Association

Kelley Bitter, Rob and Tanya Corzatt, Lisa Kiley

Liburt, Terry Myers, Sarah Vas

Dr. Wendy Houser, Dr. Melissa Milligan

THE HORSEMEN’S CORRAL is published monthly by Horsemen’s Corral, 8283 Richman Road, Lodi, Ohio 44254. (ISSN 0164-6591). Published as Periodicals at the Lodi Post Office USPS 889-180 with additional entry points of Cleveland, OH 44101 and New Philadelphia, OH 44663. Periodicals postage paid at Lodi, Ohio, and additional entry offices. Subscriptions may only be purchased through Horsemen’s Corral member clubs. Single copies, $3.00 at select distributors. For subscriptions, address changes, and adjustments, write to: Horsemen’s Corral, P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254. Manuscripts, drawings, and other material submitted must be accompanied by a stamped self-addressed envelope.

POSTMASTER: All subscription addresses are properly screened through CASS per USPS requirements. The Horsemen’s Corral will not accept returns of magazines deemed undeliverable for any reason. Please discard copy of any issue deemed as undeliverable.

The Horsemen’s Corral cannot be held responsible for unsolicited material.

MAILING ADDRESS & PHONE:

P.O. Box 32, Lodi, Ohio 44254

OFFICE: 330/635-4145

Ride In Sync

When is it Time Divorce Your Horse?

The weather will soon be getting nice and the riding season is coming. People are going to start getting their horses out and back in the swing of things. Some people own the old steady Eddie type horses that they can pick up right where they left off last fall. But most of us have the horse that will need tuned up to get back to where they were before the weather went to pot. For everyone with the first horse, congratulations for owning such a broke and solid horse. For all of us with the second type of horse, it’s time to go to work.

Getting started means being sure that you and your horse are starting back to work safely. Getting on your horse for the first time in months and going on a 25 mile trail ride is not advisable or fair to your horse. Chances are your horse is going to be stiff and not give to the bridle. You will also be stiff, out of shape (regardless of how many times

you worked out) and your hands will not give to the bridle either. Any performance issues you may have had last fall may be amplified with the time off. Consider things you can do to help you both get back in the swing. Clean and inspect your tack, looking for cracking or signs of excessive wear. Then start with your ground work. Ask your horse to give his neck, ribcage and hip. Be sure you have control of your horse from the ground and that you have his respect. Remember a house is built from the ground up. No matter what you do with your horse, ring work is still important. Working circles and asking for bending of neck and ribcage plus working on body control will help you in any discipline. Yes, trail riders, it includes you! Total body control is important on the trail. Considering the challenges and scary things on the trail, the trail horse needs to be a very well

trained horse to ensure safety of both horse and rider. Ring work is also where you will re-establish the horses confidence in you as the leader of the horse/rider team. If you find you are having trouble, where do you turn? There are a lot of resources readily available, all with pros and cons. Probably the most expensive but easiest option is to hire a trainer. Finding and choosing a trainer with the experience to solve your problems or train your horse and you in new skills can be a challenge. Look for someone with a good reputation or who has been recommended by someone you respect. If the trainer promises miracles or wants you to only come to see your horse at prescheduled times, walk away. Ask the trainer to explain the methods and training plan for your horse, to ensure you understand how your horse will be trained, then ask how you will be trained to ensure that you and your horse are a team.

Other resources include books and videos. These can be a great way to build your understanding of training and riding techniques. But you still need a second pair of eyes to tell you what you look like. You may think your arm or leg position is correct, when actually it is not. It may take someone to tell you what they see. Remember, even a clock that doesn’t work is right twice a day!

Horse expos such as Equine Affaire are a great way to be able to learn new training and riding skills. You can see the technique as it is demonstrated, then follow up with the clinician to ask questions. Clinics and lessons are

a great way to gain the skills to resolve problems and learn new skills. The repetition of lessons is very valuable, as long as you are progressing over time.

Considering all of these resources, no one type is going to resolve all your problems or remove all barriers, just as no bridle, bit or saddle is going to solve all your problems. Good horsemanship is a lifetime of building and continual learning. If none of this gets you to your goals, if you and your horse are still not getting along, it may be time to divorce your horse and find a new one. You need to be safe and happy in your equine pursuits.

Terry Myers is a national clinician and champion horse trainer with a depth of knowledge developed from over 50 years in the horse industry. Myers has been a popular clinician at multiple expos in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Myers’ Ride-InSync methods as well as clinic and training services available, visit www.tmtrainingcenter.com or on Facebook.

Wayne County Saddle Club

Contest, Pleasure and Buckle Series Show Dates

days. Pleasure will start at 8:30 a.m. and Contest follows at 11 a.m. Years ago we had Contest and Pleasure shows together.

Following is a listing of dates: May 6, May 20, July 15, July 29, Aug. 12 and Aug. 26. For Pleasure call Angie Didinger at 330/201-1022, for Contest call Jamie Horsky at 419/496-6549.

Our new President, Keith Holcombe, opened the February Saddle Club meeting. Remaining officers include Vice Presidents of Contest, Jamie Horsky and Vice President of Pleasure, Angie Didinger, Secretary Tricia Crilow, Treasurer Beth Eikleberry. Directors are: Rachael Adamson (newly elected), Colin Benek, Shenea Holcombe, Leanne Louive, Lane Louive, and Matt Schaaf. Cadance Horsky is our 2023 Youth Director and Stan Bosler is a one-year director as past President.

The meeting saw 2023 dates chosen. Contest and Pleasure will experience a new format this year. They are all on the same

We will again offer a ‘Buckle Series’ mostly the same as last year. There will be even more awards this year for younger contestants will be announced on the showbill. Dates are: April 21, May 12, June 9, June 30, July 14, July 28, Aug. 11, Sept. 1, and Oct. 27 (Buckle Series classes and awards only). Leanne Louive is your contact at 330/844-4041.

The Youth (director’s) Show is June 10 with more details to follow. The ‘Roundup’ is Oct. 14 and 15 with fun shows and gospel music.

A new addition this year is two Sunday ‘Fun Shows’ May 21 and June 4 with a possibility of more if they go really well. Again there will be more details soon.

The Spring ‘Clean-Up’ will

be March 25 with a rain/snow date of April 8. Start time is 10 a.m. until whenever. Bring rakes shovels saws, etc.

As I suggested last time, the banquet went really well. Folks were just plain glad to be back to the traditional agenda again. The dinner was followed by the annual meeting and election, the awards, followed by the ‘red neck’ auction and dancing. Thank you to everyone who helped make it a great success!

As I suggested last time, and as

you have seen here, your officers and directors have been hard at work setting things for 2023. Our meetings are the first Thursday of each month at East of Chicago Pizza in Wooster until April when warmer weather lets us move to the ‘Hollow. All meetings are open to members, so you are, indeed, welcome to come.

The worship group meets the first and second Sundays until warmer weather. Welcome!

Prayers and best wishes,

CORRAL

Show Dates and Judges Finalized for 2023

Our 2023 show dates and judges are now finalized.

APRIL 15-16: Under Judge

Hi

I hope you all had a good end of 2022, and got through the holiday craziness in one piece. As of this writing, we are in the first week of February, and are in full show season prep mode. It won’t be long before we will hitting the show pen again! We held our annual tack swap at the Ashland County Fairgrounds on Jan. 28. A big thank you to all of our vendors and everyone who came to shop! This was our biggest swap yet, with over 120 vendors and both buildings full! Shopping traffic was a steady stream all day, and there was many deals to be had. We hope you consider joining us at next year’s swap!

Steve Shank

MAY 27-28: Under Judge

Chad Moshier

JULY 1-2: Under Judge Steve Carter

AUG. 12-13: Under Judge

Amy Franks

You can reserve your stalls for the April show on our website, www.ashlandpaintandplain.com.

Don’t forget to sign up for an Ashland Paint and Plain membership to be eligible for our end of the season high point awards! Membership must be submitted before you can start earning points. Individual membership is $20 and a Family membership is $25. We give out some awesome high point awards! Hope to see everyone in April!

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Ohio Valley Team Penning Association

Memberships, Sponsors, High Point Saddles

Ready, Set, Sort! Come sort with Ohio Valley Team Penning Association (OVTPA)! Have some fun and enjoy your horse. We want to remind everyone to get their memberships in early for reduced rates on or before April 22/23—Individual and family memberships available. Don’t miss the opportunity to start earning points at the first of the season. Membership forms can be found under the ‘Guides’ tab at the top of the Facebook page or contact any of our officers!

OVTPA has a big novice base and is beginner friendly. You

don’t have to know anyone when you come to an OVTPA show, the draw ride entry system will match you up with riders. By the end of the day you will get to know other riders and have a good time! Stephanie Morris and staff is always so helpful at the entry booth.

Check this issue of the Horsemen’s Corral for 2023 OVTPA sorting flyer. OVTPA officers, BOD and promoter have been working hard to put together

a great year of sorting! All shows will be held at Treharne Training Center, 49053 Fredericktown/ Clarkson Road, Negley, Ohio. First show is April 22.

OVTPA is looking for sponsors! We are always grateful for those businesses and individuals/ families that are willing to sponsor OVTPA. Packages start at $50, great bang for your buck! Contact any officer or check on the form on our Facebook page. Exciting news! Bob and Katie

Jamison will be donating not one, but two Bowden saddles for the 2023 show season! One saddle for High Point Novice and one saddle for High Point Youth—rules are being worked on and will be available soon. This will be a huge incentive for riders in these divisions. Let the fun begin!

Be sure to like us on Facebook and as always our President John May is available for any questions, 814/397-3265.

Michigan Trail Riders Association, Inc.

Freezing our ‘Bums’ to Spring Time Fun

EMAIL, mtra.office@gmail.com

PHONE, 989/723-1425

Spring is in the air and we are saying goodbye to winter and anticipating our first few warmer weather events. This past winter was active for our club. We started an Internet fundraiser where club members could donate money to purchase a hat of their choice that said “I froze me bum for MTRA fun” and then they posted pictures of themselves wearing the hat while riding over the winter. We had a fun time watching each other with our snow ponies outside in the freezing cold weather sporting our new MTRA hats on the Facebook page ‘MTRA 2023: Froze Me Bum for MTRA Fun’. We have great members with great ideas and we’d like to

thank Tracy Evans for designing and creating the hats (which are available along with other MTRA apparel at MTRAvirtual. orderpromos.com and Therese Kline for manning the Facebook group page that promoted the hats and the interactive pictures. If you are interested in donating to the club by purchasing a hat please go to our apparel website soon as they are available for a limited time only. This same group of ladies will be hosting our next virtual ride starting in August, so check out the Facebook group for upcoming details.

The next activity the club has

planned is our annual meeting and banquet in March. It will be held at the Doherty Hotel in Clare, Mich. Tickets have already been sold, so we hope to see you there. We are also excited to announce we have a booth at the Michigan State Expo this year. Come down to visit if you’d like to get to know about our club or talk with some representatives about joining. You can purchase or renew your membership at the booth as well. We plan to have some video footage rolling to show our scenic trails and let people get a feeling for what it would be like to join in on the rides. Stop by and say hi! Finally, we are prepping for our April workbee and we should have more details to share in our next article about how to sign up for that and what to expect. It’s important for members to join us in our workbees so we can keep

the trails clean and ready for the riding season. Most workbees allow some time for riding and hanging around at the bonfire at night, so it’s not all work, but we also get a lot accomplished during those weekends. We often build bridges, sink picket line poles, trim trees, clear brush or tidy up the camps. We want your help on these workbees. People who have four wheelers, tractors, shovels, chainsaws, etc…are especially helpful, but we mainly just need the manpower. Come as you are and come ready for work (and for a little bit of play). There are so many great things always happening in the MTRA club. Get your membership renewed today, come meet all of us and get ready to ride with us this season. Check out our website at www.mtra.org and our Facebook pages to keep up to date with all the happenings. Ride on!

Miami Valley Horse Show Association

MVHSA—To New Beginnings

We appreciate our members and want to continually show our gratitude for all their hard work. At our banquet on Feb. 4, we gave away spurs, halters, chairs, Schneider’s Sheets, gift cards, and more!

To better serve our members, we also passed an amendment to replace Walk/Trot/Canter Nonstock classes with Walk/ Trot Nonstock classes on our approved show list.

The Miami Valley Horse Show Association (MVHSA) recently elected our 2023 officers and welcomed new board members.

Thank you for volunteering with us: Amber Schlechty, Tracie Hoying, Shannon Langston, Stacey Kane, Angie Wills, Crystal Carpenter, Penny Stidham, Rachel Ramey, Rich Myers.

Our members are what make MVHSA the outstanding organization that it is. Ranging from youth to adult, we offer a family friendly showing environment that centers on the development of our youth. We are happy to meet you and hope that you attend one of our shows as an exhibitor or spectator to see our group in action.

Black Swamp Driving Club

Mark Your Calendars For 2023 Events

which it ratified its Bylaws. We have the required five Board of Directors required for the good standing of the club to continue. Roger Higgins Jr. has volunteered to be the next Corral writer.

Now we can proceed with the 2023 list of activities that have been calendared.

Observing the Western Reserve activity of March 12, BSDC will not hold a meeting at our Arlington church location. We

will instead have a gathering at the Amish Door, Restaurant, Bakery and Lodging for lunch starting at 11:30 a.m. on March 18. (If anyone chooses to sleep there, the night before, the cost for a room is $134.10.) After lunch starting at 1 p.m. we will meet at Weaver Wagons, 5090 Mount Eaton Road S., Dalton, Ohio (330/857-7811). All clubs are welcome to join with us. Weaver Wagons will not be working at the time and this will be a special opening for any club members or friends, to come and see the Weaver Wagons.

Also open Saturday morning March 18 is the Bowman Harness, LTD, 6928 County Road 77, Millersburg, Ohio. (Mt. Hope open until 11:30 a.m. Saturday the 18th.) Or another option for your morning is Fairview County Sales (pony carts, harness, etc.), 3024 County Road 160, (Mt. Hope off of CR 77), Millersburg, Ohio. (Open until noon Saturday the 18th.)

Our next gathering after the Weaver Wagons is the Memorial Day picnic. This

Ride Horse to Trails from Home!

annual gathering is at the LDS Church on Conneaut, in Bowling Green, Ohio, at 11 a.m. At that outdoor potluck picnic there will be hamburgers/hotdogs (church supplied), salads, and a wagon and horse giving free carriage rides around the city streets. A Red Cross Blood drive will be going on inside the building at the same time.

Future dates to mark on your calendars (information will be in print about them in later issues of the Horsemen’s Corral) that may be of interest are:

JULY 8: The ice cream social at the Wyandotte historical bldg.

AUG. 5: A horse and wagon event in Indiana

AUG. 12-13: Ada War Memorial Park

AUG. 26: Hayhurst Farm potluck and obstacle drive.

SEPT. 16: Parker Bridge Drive.

OCT. 28: Halloween party. BSDC members would like to wish everyone a safe and horse filled spring and summer.

Feel free to contact me, the club president at sharonahayhurst@ gmail.com.

Ohio High School Rodeo Association Create Lifelong Memories

Occasionally, rodeo kids will trade in their cowboy hats and boots for dresses and sportscoats! This January we hosted our annual Cowboy Prom. This awesome event is a chance for all our members to come together for an evening away from the rodeo scene and have some fun! ‘Cowboy Prom’ was a red-carpet theme, so everyone was dressed to impress. The evening was complete with a photobooth, dinner and dancing. The photobooth was a big hit with parents and kids!

The Ohio High School Rodeo Association (OHSRA) is dedicated to creating educated, competitive rodeo athletes with impeccable character. Through the OHSRA, grades 5-12 have the opportunity to make lifelong memories, longlasting friendships, learn valuable life lessons, and have the chance to compete at the national level! Our association is perfect for the rodeo athlete that is interested in competing at the next level. Although the atmosphere is competitive, our contestants don’t hesitate to help one another out and cheer each other on.

This spring I will round out my senior year in the OHSRA and I can truly say the thing I will miss the most is the comradery and the friendships I have gained throughout my six years in the association. Some of my fondest memories are simply just sitting

in the campground after the rodeo talking about all the “shoulda, coulda, woulda’s” you had that day. Whether it’s hosing each other off after the muddy rodeo, congratulating your friends on winning runs or making that long, tired trip home, your rodeo family and friends will always be there for you.

Our spring season begins March 31-April 2 in Winfield, WVa., for the 10th Annual Mountaineer Stampede. If you are interested in joining us for our spring season, please visit the membership tab on our website, ohiohighschoolrodeo. org. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @ ohiohighschoolrodeo for more information and updates on our upcoming rodeos!

The Power of Preventive Care

Anew horse owner might believe that their horse is supposed to be dewormed every other month, and receive vaccinations twice a year. Based on advice from on-line chat groups and horse-owning friends, the new owner buys the needed treatments from the local feed store. Another friend shows the new owner how to administer the vaccinations and deworm the horse. Year after year, the horse seems to do OK with this approach, until the horse begins to lose weight, has a decreased appetite, eats more slowly and seems lethargic. The owner notices that the horse has bad breath and reddened gums. The owner reaches out to friends and to on-line resources and determines that the horse likely needs its teeth floated. Imagine the owner’s shock and heartbreak when the veterinarian diagnoses advanced kidney disease as the primary cause. What could this owner have done to possibly have a different outcome?

What is Preventive Care?

An interesting question to ask horse owners is “What is preventive care”? Many would likely reply that it is how they feed their horses, the opportunity for horses to interact socially with each other, hoof care, providing comfortable housing, adequate exercise, and the love and affection they show to their horses. The owners would not be wrong; these are important components in the well-being of horses. However, preventive care is incomplete without preventive medicine.

The Value of Preventive Medicine

Preventive medicine refers to the care a horse receives to prevent diseases, and to identify problems proactively rather than reactively, as the story above illustrates. When health concerns are identified before they are clinically obvious, actions can be taken to manage disease progression. In the case of kidney disease, annual senior screening bloodwork might have detected abnormalities early in the course of the disease, allowing for a change in diet that lessened the work the kidneys must do in clearing metabolic byproducts from the bloodstream. Common medications that are processed by kidneys, including anti-inflammatories like Bute and Banamine, could be avoided. This would reduce the risk of further kidney damage. The end result is a horse that lived a longer, better quality life with proactive lifestyle modifications.

When horse owners decide to partner with veterinarians, the owner learns how to best protect their horses from current diseases and as well as newly emerging threats. By asking questions like “What should I be doing in this stage of my horse’s life to be proactive with

his health?” or “What else should I know to take great care of my horse now?” owners can take a hands-on approach.

The foundation of preventive medicine is the wellness examination. Typically, it will include a history about how your horse is doing, what you are feeding your horse, questions about your horse’s lifestyle and how it is used, such as trail riding or if it is actively being shown. The veterinarian will observe the general housing and management of your horse and ask about any behavioral concerns, such as wind sucking, stall weaving, or cribbing. Based on this assessment, the veterinarian will recommend appropriate preventive measures like vaccinations, fecal evaluations to determine the proper dewormer needs of your horse, provide nutritional advice and suggest ways to address behavioral concerns.

Recommendations for Proactive Equine Care Regular physical examinations

A comprehensive physical exam includes a tip of the nose to tip of the hooves exam, assessing all major body systems including dental health, a musculoskeletal exam done while at rest and while moving, palpation of joints, examination of the hooves, and a pain assessment. Based on the age of your horse and its job, your veterinarian will recommend physical examinations every 6-12 months.

Weight Assessment

During the physical examination the veterinarian will evaluate your horse’s weight and body condition. Obesity is common in horses, due to overfeeding in relation to their lifestyles. Recent studies suggest that equine obesity affects up to 70 percent of horses and is associated with conditions such as metabolic syndrome, joint disease, infertility and poor performance. If your horse is overweight, your veterinarian will provide nutritional counseling.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations for horses are designated as ‘core’ and ‘risk based’. Core vaccinations are those all horses should receive to protect them from debilitating and often fatal diseases. These include Rabies, Tetanus, Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis and West Nile Virus.

Risk based vaccinations include those that are appropriate for your horse to receive, based on environmental hazards, the region of the country you live in, and the lifestyle of your horse. Your veterinarian will look at where your horse lives (backyard horse vs. a stabled

horse, for example), ask you about how you use your horse, and other questions to determine which additional vaccinations would be appropriate and necessary to protect the health of your horse.

The frequency of vaccination administration depends on the age of the horse and its lifestyle assessment. Foals usually receive a series of three doses of vaccinations throughout their first year of life. Adult horses usually receive annual vaccinations; some vaccinations must be given twice yearly. Timing of vaccination administration is also important; it is preferred

to give vaccinations that protect against diseases transmitted by mosquito bites in the springtime, so your horse has good antibodies against those diseases when the mosquitos are most active. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the best vaccination schedule for your horse.

Diagnostic Testing

Recommendations for diagnostic testing will vary based on the age of the horse and risk factors for diseases. They include blood, urine and fecal evaluations. Because horses can’t tell us when something feels wrong, diagnostic testing often allows owners and veterinarians to detect abnormalities before disease is clinically evident. This ‘early warning’ means that changes can be made that will hopefully resolve the condition, or allow it to be easily managed. When the news is good, and the blood tests are normal, the owner and the veterinarian now have a baseline established, which is important in interpreting future abnormal findings.

Fecal examinations are recommended annually for all horses to determine the necessary deworming schedule specific to your horse’s individual needs. The traditional method of deworming every two months has led to parasite resistance among horses. For this reason, targeted dewormings should be based on the results of the fecal evaluation and current guidelines.

The costs of preventive medicine can add up, so it pays for horse owners to understand what financial tools exist to help budget for this care. Some equine

veterinarians offer preventive care (wellness) plans, which usually combine the best care recommendations into a yearly bundled plan, with the cost divided into 12 equal payments. Equine health insurance is another way that horse owners can be prepared for future veterinary care expenses. It helps allow horse owners to focus on providing optimal medical care for the horse, rather than focusing on the cost of care. For more information about affordable equine health insurance programs* that provide coverage for wellness, accidents, illness and colic, please visit www.ProtectYourHorse.com.

*Not available in every state

Wendy Hauser, DVM is AVP, Veterinary Relations, Crum & Forster Pet Insurance Group™. An Oklahoma native, she grew up on a small horse ranch and actively showed Quarter Horses in both AQHA and 4-H events. She has practiced for 30+ years as an associate, practice owner and relief veterinarian.

The ASPCA® is not an insurer and is not engaged in the business of insurance. Products are underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company (NAIC #21113. Morristown, NJ), produced and administered by C&F Insurance Agency, Inc. (NPN # 3974227), a Crum & Forster company. Through a licensing agreement, the ASPCA receives a royalty fee that is in exchange for use of the ASPCA’s marks and is not a charitable contribution. U0721-Article-EQ

Premier Mount N Trail

New Year, New Leadership

The Annual Premier Mount N Trail (PMT) banquet welcomed new leadership while thanking and honoring longtime dedication to the organization.

Cynthia Bauman and Becky Burnell were both honored and thanked for their dedication and commitment to PMT, it is their tireless efforts that helped to create a strong foundation for the organization.

Cynthia Bauman served as president of the board since the inception of PMT (originally Ohio Mount N Trail) in 2020 until early 2023. She routinely donated park time from her park, Creekside Horse Park,

as well as prizes, food and her valuable time. Cynthia has been an integral part of growing PMT to where it is today.

Becky Burnell served as vice president of the board until 2022 after which she continued to provide a tremendous amount of support and assistance to PMT any time she was called upon for help. Becky has also been paramount in helping to expand PMT with parks and members. New board members and leadership were announced and welcomed at the banquet. Kelly Chapman who has served on the board as head judge will step into the role of president this year.

Stephanie Tarr will serve as vice president, Heidi Daugherty (also a founding member of PMT) will serve as secretary, and Kerry Elliott is welcomed this year as treasurer.

Additionally, three new directors were elected, Jennie Wright, Karen Petrime and Susan Croft, while existing directors, Victoria Nowak, Kris Lamb, and Bobby Jo Baumberger returned to volunteer their precious time and talents.

2023 is sure to be an exciting

year. The Board of Directors has big plans to grow, expand, and continually offer their members the best in parks and prizes.

If you own a park and would like to begin offering PMT sanctioned shows, please reach out to PMT at premiermountntrail@gmail.com. If you are a competitor, and would like to add a PMT show to your calendar, please visit our Facebook page (Premier Mount N Trail) for a list of all 2023 PMT shows.

Finding an Equine Nutritionist

In each article written here, we make every effort to provide practical, useful, science-based educational information focusing on proper nutrition of the horse. We always recommend working with a ‘qualified equine nutritionist.’ But what does that mean? To date, there are no regulatory bodies that certify equine nutritionists. The reality is, anyone can call themselves an equine nutritionist, and it’s legal to do so. Unlike a veterinarian, a doctor or a human nutritionist, all of whom must pass a board exam and have a license to practice, the requirements for calling oneself an equine nutritionist are notably less strict. So how do you know your equine nutritionist knows what they are doing? Read on.

Education

Being an equine nutritionist is more than just taking an online course, spending a lifetime around horses, or even having a graduate degree. It’s more complex than simply balancing a ration. In the human world, nutritionists must pass exams, hold graduate degrees and spend hours in clinical practice to qualify for counseling people in matters of nutrition. While the same path is not yet in place in the equine world, there are many qualified nutritionists out there. Equine nutritionists have spent years in graduate school conducting nutritionspecific research in addition to relevant advanced level course work (Advanced Nutritional Biochemistry, anyone?) For example, in-depth knowledge of biochemistry, digestive physiology, endocrinology and how these internal mechanisms work together to metabolize nutrients, and how biological systems are affected by diet are critical for supporting equine health. And the learning doesn’t stop there. Professional nutritionists attend continuing education meetings, such as that hosted by the Equine Science Society, participate in and/ or keep up to date on research, and actively work to expand and disseminate knowledge about equine nutrition.

What To Look For

Here are some guidelines on what to look for in an equine nutritionist. Start by simply asking for credentials*. No professional should be offended by this question. Does the nutritionist in question have an advanced degree, and if so in what field? Remember, a MS, PhD or DVM alone does not a nutritionist make, but what that individual specialized in and continues to study matters. How did one get their equine nutrition education? Is the person willing to work with your veterinarian, if necessary, if there are health concerns? If the nutritionist works for a particular company, are they able to provide the best option for the horse, even if it isn’t a product they represent? Remember that most land-grant universities have Equine Extension Specialists on the faculty. These individuals are usually available to contact free of charge, and while they typically can’t make specific product recommendations, they can help you determine if your feed program is appropriate, or help you choose the right product(s) for your individual horse’s needs. If you find an Equine Extension Specialist that is out of state, that is OK! State borders are not limiting when it comes to Extension services or scientific information.

Be Wary

Those calling themselves a nutrition consultant or nutritionist because they have simply taken a non-university based or unregulated, uncertified nutrition course online typically does not qualify one to be a professional nutritionist. There are even a handful of people who do hold PhDs, DVMs and/or MS degrees and promote themselves as equine nutritionists, but those graduate degrees were not earned in the area of equine science. If one has a PhD in history, for example, they are probably not qualified to design a diet for your horse, much in the same way that a PhD that focused on equine science is probably not going to advise the Federal Reserve on matters of economics! These are some extreme examples to make a point, and there are individuals

who make honest career changes, but again, ask questions and use your best judgement.

Take Home Message

When it comes to equine nutritionists, it’s more than just being able to read a feed tag and balance a ration. Understanding the implications of overall diet on health is key, including the type and quality of ingredients that go into a horse’s body. All feed tags are not created equal, and a good nutritionist understands how to differentiate between products that on the surface look similar and help determine if a given product is right for an individual horse’s situation. Go ask questions, and enjoy your horse time!

Practicing What I Preach

A note regarding credentials: The author earned her MS and PhD degrees in Equine Exercise Physiology and Nutrition at the Rutgers University Equine Science Center in New Jersey and is a published author of several peer-reviewed scientific papers in this area. She is an active member of the Equine Science Society, a Professional Animal Scientist (PAS – Horse Specialization) with the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists, a member of the Extension Horses group, and regularly reviews scientific papers for publication and participates in the design and implementation of equine nutrition research. Within her role as an equine nutritionist for BUCKEYE™ Nutrition, she works with a team of world-renowned equine researchers through the WALTHAM Petcare Science Center. She frequently consults not only with customers, but with veterinarians on clinical cases where diet is a crucial part of a horse’s health program, and is an approved provider (by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards) of veterinary continuing education pertaining to equine nutrition.

Dr. Nettie Liburt is the Senior Equine Nutrition Manager for MARS Horsecare US/BUCKEYE™ Nutrition, responsible for formulating and developing new products, research and education of the sales team, our dealers and our customers. Headquartered in Dalton, Ohio, BUCKEYE Nutrition has been manufacturing quality products since 1910. BUCKEYE Nutrition takes feed safety seriously, implementing many programs mandated in human food manufacturing facilities. With the backing of the WALTHAM® Petcare Science Center, a worldleading authority on pet care and widely renowned as an institution of the highest scientific caliber, our equine nutritionists provide scientifically-based equine nutritional solutions which guide our formulations and our BUCKEYE Nutrition brand promise of being the highest quality, fixed formula feeds available. BUCKEYE Nutrition is a 100 percent equine-focused company, 100 percent medicationfree facility, sourcing 100 percent traceable, pure ingredients for consistency. 800/898-9467. www.BuckeyeNutrition.com

Strangulating Lipomas

What are they and how do they affect your horse?

Strangulating lipomas are a common cause of colic in older horses and account for approximately 40 percent of surgical small intestinal problems. A lipoma is a benign fatty tumor that grows undetected in the abdomen of horses and it grows most often within the mesentery of the small intestine, although they can affect other portions of the gastrointestinal tract. The mesentery is the tissue that contains the blood vessels that nourish the intestine. Often times, lipomas never cause a problem for the horse, and their presence cannot be detected by ultrasound, x-rays, or rectal palpation. Other times, however, lipomas will form on a long string of tissue from the mesentery, allowing them to move within the abdomen. In these instances, the lipoma can wrap around a section of small intestine and its associated blood supply causing damage to the blood supply and a physical blockage of the small intestine. When this happens, the horse immediately begins to show signs of colic, such as laying down, pawing, rolling, looking at its abdomen, and sometimes sweating. When the veterinarian arrives to evaluate a horse with these colic signs, he or she will perform a physical examination which typically reveals an elevated heart rate, decreased to absent gastrointestinal sounds, and pale mucous membranes. A rectal examination might identify distended loops of small intestine and passage of a nasogastric tube may retrieve gastric reflux, or extra fluid from within the stomach, both of which result from the lipoma preventing the movement of food and fluid through the small intestine. At this point in the examination, the horse is referred for further evaluation at a surgical facility, because the necessary treatment for this condition cannot be provided on the farm. Banamine and sedatives are administered on the farm to keep the horse as comfortable as possible.

Once your horse arrives at the referral hospital a physical examination,

rectal examination, and passage of a nasogastric tube will be repeated because the horse’s condition may have changed during transport. Throughout the examination the attending veterinarian will continue to provide pain medication to your horse. Additional diagnostic tests will include an abdominal ultrasound and an abdominocentesis. The ultrasound examination will show distended loops of small intestine, which look like big black non-moving circles on the ultrasound screen. The abdominocentesis allows collection of the fluid that bathes the outside of the intestine, and this fluid will tell the surgeon how badly the intestine has been damaged by the lipoma. Normal fluid is clear and pale yellow. Intestine that has been severely damaged by a lipoma will be red in color, cloudy, and have an increase in protein concentration. The pre-operative diagnostic tests cannot tell how much small intestine has been involved, because the same results will occur if just a few inches of intestine are affected or several feet. Nor can pre-operative tests tell where within the small intestine the problem resides, because all 70 feet of small intestine looks identical on ultrasound examination. The only treatment for a lipoma that has wrapped around a segment of intestine is emergency colic surgery, because the lipoma will not unwrap on its own. If permission for surgery is granted, it is performed immediately. Unfortunately, if surgery is not an option for the horse (for a variety of reasons), the only other option is humane euthanasia to prevent further suffering.

During colic surgery, the exact location of the lipoma is determined as well as the amount of intestine involved. The severity of the damage depends on the length of time the lipoma has been wrapped around the intestine, as well as how tightly it has been wrapped around it. Sometimes, if the horse goes to surgery early enough, or the lipoma does not wrap very tightly, the only treatment required is to remove the lipoma because the blood supply has not been permanently damaged and the intestine is still healthy. Other times, if the lipoma has been wrapped around the intestine for several hours or has wrapped very tightly, the involved segment of intestine will die and must be removed in a procedure called a resection and anastomosis. The prognosis can be as high as 80 percent for complete recovery and return to a normal quality of life, or it can be less than that depending on the severity of the lipoma’s damage.

Surgery is frequently performed on horses well into their 20’s, as long as they are healthy prior to the onset of colic signs. The two most common pre-existing conditions that would affect the horse’s ability to make it through surgery and do well post-operatively are orthopedic conditions that hinder the horse’s ability to recover from anesthesia (such as arthritis) and Cushing’s Syndrome, which makes healing more difficult. It is an old wive’s tale that older horses cannot survive colic surgery and do well post-operatively. They are often just not given the opportunity due to incorrect pre-conceived notions about colic surgery, pre-existing conditions as outlined above, or financial considerations. Lipoma formation cannot be prevented, nor can it be detected. Dietary management and body condition do not affect lipoma formation, as they are found in thin horses, overweight horses, and horses with an appropriate body condition. The most common breeds for lipoma formation are ponies, Arabians, American Saddlebreds, and Quarter Horses. The average age is 14-19 years, but lipomas are routinely diagnosed in horses well into their 20’s. It is uncommon for a lipoma to be discovered in a horse under 10 years of age. Geldings are at higher risk for lipoma formation, but the reason has not yet been determined.

Dr. Melissa Milligan is board-certified in equine surgery, and a partner at the Equine Specialty Hospital in Burton, Ohio. Dr. Milligan joined the hospital in 2007 and purchased it in 2014. The Equine Specialty Hospital provides surgical, sports medicine, internal medicine, and rehabilitation services to horses in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York. Established in 1994, the hospital’s goal is to be your partner in providing excellent medical and surgical care for your horse. Elective and emergency services are available without a referral. Visit www.EquineSpecialtyHospital.com to learn more about the hospital and the services we provide.

Do you have a mare due to foal?

• Your mare can be boarded at the hospital prior to foaling, so she can be monitored 24 hours a day.

• All foaling’s are attended to ensure the best possible care for your mare and foal.

Was the foal born at your farm and now experiencing issues?

• The hospital has a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to accomodate foals requiring intensive medical or surgical care.

• The level of intensive care is tailored to the patient’s needs.

• Critically ill neonatal foals often requires someone to sit with them 24 hours a day to monitor the foal’s vital signs.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss any of our services in more detail, please call us at (440) 834-0811 or visit us at EquineSpecialtyHospital.com

Northern Kentucky Horse Network Annual Dinner Meeting, Board of Directors Elected

support throughout the year. Several business members set up tables at our dinner to promote and sell their products and services. We thank them for their donations to our door prize pool.

At the end of January, we had our Annual Dinner Meeting. Extension Agents, Michelle Simon, Campbell County; Dan Allen, Kenton County; Jerry Brown and Gary Stockton, Boone County, hosted the afternoon at the Boone County Extension Office. We’re grateful for their support and guidance to NKHN. After dinner, President Trisha Kremer called the meeting to order. She talked about our accomplishments in 2022 and what’s ahead in 2023. A scholarship was awarded to member Brittany Rust, who is furthering her education in the equine industry. Congratulations! Recognition was given to our business sponsors. We are so grateful for their donations and

All members are encouraged to spend time with their horses and track their hours to ride/drive for the year. Awards were given to Charlie Poppe who logged 740 driving hours; Kim Wehrle who logged 150 riding hours; and Sienna Studer who logged 140.5 riding hours.

Election for 2023 Board of Directors was held and we are pleased to announce the following members were elected to the NKHN Board of Directors: Trisha Kremer, Katie Lauer and Donnie Orth have been re-elected to the Board. Three new members were elected to the Board: Mindy Burke, Pam Davis and Jackie Holland. Congratulations and thank you all for stepping up. Board members Susan Dickinson and Jessica Bloom will remain on the Board. Board members are elected to a two-year term and make a big commitment to the organization.

Thanks and much appreciation was extended to Mark Voet, Monica Egger, Tracey Schoen, and Tina Caldwell who retired from the Board this year.

We are an all-volunteer organization and we recognize all of our volunteers as this organization depends on them and is successful because of them. Thank you everyone for a successful 2022, we look forward to 2023.

Our 2023 events have been posted to the Corral Calendar, we hope you’ll think about joining us.

MARCH 25: Horse Health Day, Alexandria Fairgrounds, Alexandria, Ky. Contact Katie Lauer, 859/444-0204.

APRIL 29-30: Elkins Creek Weekend Ride in Pedro, OH. Contact Donnie Orth, 859/3937012 for more information.

MAY 6-7: Dressage Clinic and Show, Alexandria Fairgrounds, Alexandria, Ky. Contact Jacki Holland, 859/816-1095.

MAY 20: Drill Team Competition, Alexandria Fairgrounds, Alexandria, Ky. Contact Joyce Voet, 859/6304566.

Lake Erie Mounted Vaqueros

Congratulations to Year-End Winners

Our banquet was held on January 21 at the Lenox Community Center. We had a total of 42 for dinner. There were lots of items for the Chinese auction table and for the large auction table. I want to thank everyone who helped to set up, those who donated for the auction tables, those who brought desserts and to the ones who helped at the banquet with tickets and tearing down afterwards. A big thank you to Gage Concessions for preparing the great tasting food.

OVERALL CHAMPION: Ron Kiko.

OVERALL AND SR. OVERALLS: Ron Kiko, Karla Durnell, R. David Davis, Cheri Stady.

RESERVE AWARDS: Colleen Kelly, Greg Durnell, Maria Haefner, Mike Sheets.

MOST IMPROVED COWBOY &

COWGIRL: Mike Sheets, Emily Hric. RIFLE AND SHOTGUN: R David Davis and Ron Kiko.

TOP 5: Ron Kiko, R. David Davis, Mike Sheets, Ed Haefner and Greg Durnell.

CLASS WINNERS: SL2 June Schmidt, SL3 Dawn Wojtowicz, SL4 Cheri Stady, SL5 Colleen Kelly, SM2 Brian Hric, SM3 Greg Durnell, SM6 Ron Kiko, L1 Emily Hric, L2 Maria Haefner, L3 Karla Durnell, M1 Sylvio Pellegrino, M2 Mike Sheets, M4 R David Davis.

Our next meetings will be on March 1 and April 5. The place will be on our website. Meeting are always the first Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in coming, you are more than welcome to come see what it is all about. Visit our web page, lakeeriemountedvaqueros. net. Here you will see where the meetings are going to be held or

feel free to call me at 330/7193290 for any information regarding our club or about cowboy mounted shooting. We will be scheduling practices in March after this weather breaks.

All of our dates were approved by CMSA and Jefferson Fair board. Mark your calendars!

JUNE 24-25: Stagecoach I & II

JULY 15-16: Homesman I & II

AUG. 19-20: Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken I & II

SEPT. 9-10: Gone are the Days I & II

The name of the event will be the movie we will be watching after Saturdays event.

I would like to thank Carmen and Nancy Virzi for hosting our January meeting.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Big Dee’s Vet and Tack Supply, where you can get all your pet supplies and everything they need; CMSA; Lonesome Pine Ammo and Curly’s Ammo; Uncle Jimmy’s Brand Products, for all your pet treats, The Corral; Stagecoach West; Park Side Trailer Sales and Service, new or used horse trailers or parts or service on the one you have; Siracki Realty, if you are looking for a new house, apartment or need a place to rent; Altmyer’s Trailer Sales in Jefferson, Ohio, looking for new or used horse trailers, cargo trailers, car mate trailers, American Haulers; Rockin C Leather, Ben and Tammy Clark, for all your leather needs and accessories; Wendy Shaffer, Wendy Shaffer, MMCP, Agile Equine Bodywork; Rocks Farm and Garden; Junction Buick GMC in Chardon and Kiko Meats, Ron and Diane Kiko, for great tasting roasts, burgers and steaks.

Western Reserve Carriage Association

WRCA March Auction Fundraiser

The Western Reserve Carriage Association (WRCA) board met to elect the officers. Jo Ann Murr is president, Janet Yosay is vice president, Ann Petersen is treasurer, and Cathy Rhoades is secretary. Deb Svoboda remains Facebook and insurance liaison.

Stacey Giere and Betsy Connor will be the safety committee, Henry Rish will continue as membership secretary. We are evaluating the library and are in need for a Librarian. We could use an event chair and a Corral reporter. We discussed future drives and tentative dates pending venue permits. Carlisle drive: June/possibly August; Swine Creek, Zoar: May; Observatory Park: September; Howe Meadow: end of July/ October; Canfield Fairgrounds. Non WRCA events from other driving clubs will be shared and listed on Facebook as we learn of them. If interested in either participating on a committee or

hosting a drive, contact a board member.

Our major event and fundraiser is March 12 at 12:30 p.m. at Fieldstone Farm, 16497 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls. This fun and informative event is open to any interested friend or family. There is a dessert potluck at 1 p.m. Dan Shanahan of Shanahan Harness will speak on fit, function and care of harness. There will be 50/50 raffles, live auction and silent auction. Some of the items already donated are tack shop gift certificates, lessons with Stacey Giere or Sterling Graburn, gift baskets, photography package, playhouse square tickets, driving and non driving items. There will be a separate raffle of a handmade quilt by Meredith Giere. Tickets are available from Kay Rish or MCF and at the event. If you have any items to donate you may bring them to the meeting. Hope to see you there!

February 5 we had a WRCA Zoom educational meeting. Myrna Rhinehart from IVC Carriage spoke on Harness Ergonomics. Her presentation was well attended by 15-16

participants. Myrna gave visual examples of proper fit versus fit that could impede the movement of the horse. The program lasted over an hour with a question and answer period. WRCA had a random pick of the participants and Betsy Connor won the gift certificate we purchased. There were several requests to have her speak again.

WRCA member Stacey Giere has been putting on winter GLADS clinics. January clinician was Sterling Graburn. It was well attended by WRCA members Janet Yosay, Becky Salinger, Barb Watson, Brigette Miller, Shellie Kwitkowski, Marybeth Dixon, Susan Orosz. The March clinician is Tracey Morgan but the clinic has a waiting list.

Carlisle Driving Dates: Saturday, March 4; Tuesday, March 7; Thursday, March 9, and Sunday, March 12

Non WRCA events are Equine Affaire April 13-16 in Columbus, the National Drive April 27-30, Rocky Meadows Driving Clinic with Gary Yeager in Pennsylvania May 20-21. Don’t forget to patronize the advertisers in the Corral!

Pinto Horse Association of Ohio

My Sofisticated Lady Inducted into Pinto Horse Hall of Fame

connect with a pony mare for sale in Fremont, Ohio, that was perfect for their family. In early May of 1992 they brought home a show halter, blanket, harness and a pony named Sophie

The Pinto Horse Association of Ohio is proud to recognize the 2023 induction of My Sofisticated Lady (Sophie) into the Pinto Horse Association Of America’s Equine Hall of Fame.

My Sofisticated Lady’s legacy began in June of 1991, almost a year before Pete Thornton (another Pinto Hall of Fame inductee) and his family met this beloved pony. After attending the National Championship Show for the first time, and meeting lots of wonderful horses Pete’s daughter Julie Bowers was inspired by a flashy saddle type pony and began her mission to find a quality pony. After a 10 month search Bonny Bailey helped them

Julie informed Pete that he now owned a pony and he would have to practice and show. Sophie got a few lessons in jumping and trail-in-hand and went to her first Pinto show 10 days later, and placed very well. Pete was informed that they were taking Sophie to Tulsa, Okla., in two weeks much to his dismay. They drove 1,000 miles to the National Championship show with a pony they barely knew. Nonetheless, Sophie prevailed and exceeded expectations, earning several top 5 and Reserve Championship titles.

It became apparent in a short amount of time that Sophie was more than just Pete’s pony. Julie found her talent to be quite special, so she stole Sophie from Pete to show in driving, trail-inhand, halter, and AM classes. Pete was only allowed to show in color, jumping and leadline classes. Sophie quickly finished

many ROMs, ROEs, her Open Championship, Legion of Merit, Supreme Championship and an AM Championship with Julie. She was a very competitive pony who participated at the National Show from 1992-1996, earning numerous National and Reserve Champion titles. At the national and local level she was Pony of the Year in many in-hand and driving events. She was so impressive that she won her Pony Stock/Hunter Mare halter class at the 1994 Pinto National Show and followed by winning Champion of Champions Stock/Hunter Pony.

Through the 1990s the Thorntons were known for promoting pintos and ponies in and beyond Ohio. Judy Thornton (Pete’s wife ) thought that Sophie was so great, that she decided to purchase her own pony, a weanling named Suzie, to show with Sophie. After getting two ponies they decided to breed Sophie to Fiery Bey, adding Darby the third pinto pony to the mix. Thanks to Sophie and her contributions those three ponies started Three Ponys Farm, a small family business with three generations of Thorntons showing with the Pinto Horse Association.

Sophie had proven to be such a great mother that Julie decided to breed her again to Smokin Redball, a son of Doc Bar, producing a beautiful tobiano filly named Smoki, who can still be seen in the showpen. Then a year after that Julie decided to breed her for the third and final time to the same sire, giving her a solid colt Rocky. Rocky was sold as a 2 year old to a hunter/ jumper farm and had a successful career as a large pony jumper. Darby and Smoki followed in their mother’s footsteps and went on to earn many Horse of the Year, World Championships and lifetime achievement awards.

After Sophie’s third offspring the Thornton family decided to retire Sophie at the age of 20

and let her live out her life in luxury. She participated in 4-H club demos, helped girl scouts earn badges, and taught children the basics of riding and taking care of horses. Sophie impacted many people in her time here on earth. She helped Julie’s adopted children, Kim and Tao get through a big change in their lives in offering comfort by being a kind and gentle animal. She had a great impact on Emma Thornton, (Pete’s granddaughter) who now has a clear idea on what she wants to do in her future. Based on Emma’s experiences growing up with loving animals like Sophie, she has decided to become a large animal veterinarian while attending OSU. Sophie has helped many adults and children that knew her in her lifetime to have a better understanding of animals. The Thornton family will be the first to admit how she has shaped their lives, and motivated them to be ready for a new day. She has kept Pete going through his golden years, and kept him involved with the Ohio and National Pinto Horse Association for the past three decades. While many people would be enjoying their retirement at Pete’s age, he is still working on trying to promote and improve the Pinto Horse Association because of Sophie’s influence. My Sofisticated Lady was laid to rest in July of 2021 at age 39. She was a top-notch competitor during her youth, who left a great influential legacy, as an exceptional promoter of Pinto and ponies all around the country.

Classical Attraction Dressage Society Clinics, Schooling Show, Glamp Camp

We made it to March! We’re almost through to spring and riding outside. (At least it wasn’t as bad as what they were saying it was going to be.) I can live with what we’ve dealt with this year. Mud!

We’re getting our year under way this month. With the USDF tests having changed, we’re having a Ride A Test with Sara Justice. Sara rides both classical and western and judges both disciplines. This is a great way to gain new understanding on what the judge is looking for before you go down center line. Worried that you and your horse have had too much off time? Don’t worry! Come and audit! This is a great way to pick up knowledge and meet new friends. Details will be on our website, www.cadsdressage.org

Our first schooling show will be April 22 with Dale Lappert R judging. Dale is a font of

knowledge and a great way to enhance your skills at the start of the season. If you’re like me, I’d rather learn at the start of the show season and have a chance to polish up my ride before the Championship show!

May will be busy, but fun! We start out with our schooling show on May13. Chris Gemmel will be sitting at C for this show. This is a great show for all those in 4-H who are trying to get the scores they need to qualify for the State Fair. Plus, it’s a great time to try out our trails after you show!

May 19-21 will be our Tarrin Warren Horsemanship Clinic. This was a fantastic clinic last year. All our riders were very

Ohio Paint Horse Club New This Year — Pee Wee Classes

Greetings, Corral readers! The Ohio Paint Horse Club (OPHC) hopes that you are beginning to thaw from the winter with the coming of spring in March. In just a couple short months, the horse showing season for 2023 will be in full swing, and we are so excited to have you join us with your Paint horses!

New for 2023, the OPHC is pleased to announce we are including Pee Wee classes on our showbills. Pee Wee classes are great for kids who want to dip their toes in horse showing, especially if they still need a little assistance. The classes will be walk-only, and a parent/guardian 16 and over will be able to assist the rider during the class. Exhibitors must be 8 and under to participate. They will be judged by a single judge, and they may show any breed of horse. Riders will not be able to participate in any other riding classes except for leadline.

The APHA Eastern National Championships are back for 2023, and are hosted in Zone 8. The show will be held Aug. 24-27 in Lexington, Ky., at the Kentucky

happy with the new knowledge that they came away with. One rider said that some of the new aids were so simple and effective they were blown away. Our last event in May will be our Glamp Camp. This is set for May 27-29. This is a new event for us and we’re really excited to share it with you. We’ve had overnight glamping before, just doing one night. This time we’ll go for two nights. We’re setting up some informational sessions, trail rides, games and food. Come for the horses and leave with new friends and experiences!

Keep watching our website for more information and events, www.cadsdressage.org

Horse Park. In lieu of this show overlapping with the OPHC’s Amateur Club Show, the OPHC has adjusted the dates and location for the Amateur Club Show. OPHC’s Amateur Club Show will now be held Aug. 5-6 at the Madison County Fairgrounds in London, Ohio. With this change, we hope to see you at both our Amateur Club Show and the Eastern National Championships. The OPHC hopes to see you at our shows this year with your Paint horses, whether you are showing, or if you just want to watch and experience the Paint horse show environment. Additionally, if you would like to volunteer at our shows, we would love to have you! Contact any OPHC director with questions or interest.

Please note that shows are subject to change date, venue, judges, etc., but all communications will always be sent well in advance of the shows. To stay up to date on show announcements, be sure to connect with us on our various Facebook groups: Ohio Paint Horse Club, Zone 8 APHA, Ohio Paint Horse Amateur Club, and Zone 8 Solid Paint Bred Exhibitors.

Flatlanders Dressage & Combined Training Association, Inc.

Adding Cavaletties and Raised Poles to Your Training Program

Here in Ohio, for the most part, we have been experiencing an abnormally mild winter season. It has felt more like autumn with all the moisture, mud and wind; all of which has made riding our beloved horses much more challenging or even untenable. If you are blessed to have an indoor arena, you may have been able to continue your training program. In your training program, one wonderful exercise to add to your routine is work with cavaletties (well-spaced ground poles) and raised poles. They are great tools for dressage, jumping, and even lunging. They make for an interesting and enjoyable experience for both you and your horse. Please let me explain.

As part of the educational program series that our club enjoyed this riding season, one of the talented young riders in the Flatlanders club shared her indoor routine with us that she uses with her horse. Anika and her lovely young horse, Dewey gave a demonstration of how she uses the cavaletti and raised poles to supple and exercise him regularly. She has future plans for Dewey in the show arena and the use of the poles will advance him more quickly and consistently than otherwise.

The club members met Anika in her indoor arena where she had set up two sets of ground poles. Set up were two lines of wellspaced poles on the ground for the pair to cover at the walk, trot, and after, the canter. One line of poles had four and the other three, spaced slightly farther apart. Dewey was warmed up and ready to work when we arrived. First, Anika gave us some basic information about the use of the poles and why we should also include them in our riding routine. She began at the walk, noting that the poles will help the horse

become more aware of his own length of stride. After she progressed through both sets of poles successfully, she advanced to the trot. Dewey began to really float over the raised poles! The crowd of members that had gathered to watch and learn made a collective “Oh and Ah”. The real magic of the exercise began to be made clear as Ankia put him through his paces. She explained while she demonstrated suppleness, cadence, rhythm, and a marked lightness of step. Having ridden my own large Quarter Horse pony over the cavaletties, I can attest to the lightness and cadence this exercise provides.

Many human athletes have had the pleasure (or agony) of similar devices in training for their sport of choice. A person can really learn their own stride, teach muscle memory, and build strength in the body. Knowing

Northern Ohio Outlaws

this, why not apply this same idea to our equine athletes. One can only go in circles so many times without being bored and lose interest and focus. With addition of the poles, the rider can practice straight or curving lines at the walk, trot, and even the canter. Timing of stride, consistency of the step and balance for both the rider and his/her mount are improved. Eventually, spring and summer will return to Ohio and we will want to leg-up our horses for our preferred sport and activities. Why not add poles to spice up the process? They are both entertaining and efficient for those of us who are looking for something to get our horses not only in shape, but balanced, rhythmic and light under saddle. Until next month, be patient with the rest of the winter season. It too will pass.

Shooter Clinic Scheduled in April

The Northern Ohio Outlaws are gearing up for another fun season. Here are some important dates to put on your calendars! The annual awards banquet was held on Feb. 25, at the Amish Door Restaurant in Wilmot, Ohio. Interested in getting into mounted shooting but not sure where to start? Come join us at the spring New Shooter Clinic that is scheduled for Saturday, April 15 at Ruggles Arena in Cardington,

Ohio. We would love to have you come and learn what this sport is about! No equipment is necessary. Experienced horsemen and mounted shooters will lead three different sessions consisting of gun safety and ground shooting, cowboy mounted shooting period clothing, and horsemanship followed by competition style training. Check our webpage for more information and sign-up forms.

The 2023 Northern Ohio Outlaw shoot schedule weekends are April 29-30, June 10-11, July 8-9, Aug. 5-6 and Oct. 7-8. All events are held at the Wayne County Fairgrounds, in Wooster, Ohio.

For more information about the club or events please visit our website at nooutlaws.com or check out our Facebook page at Northern Ohio Outlaws CMSA.

Ohio Western Horse Association

OWHA 2023 Show Schedule

Bucyrus, OH (Pleasure)

JULY 1-2: OWHA Officer and Trustee, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

JULY 8: MW Pony Pals

Buckle Series, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

JULY 15: MW Pony Pals

Buckle Series, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

JULY 22: MW Pony Pals

Hello to all our Corral readers. March is here or as some like to refer to it as the official start of mud season! So pull on those muck boots and let’s get through it because before we know it, the air will be warm and the ground will be dry and that will mean show season is finally here! With that being said below is the Ohio Western Horse Association (OWHA) show schedule. You can also find the show schedule on our OWHA Facebook page and at www.owha.org.

JUNE 17: MW Pony Pals

Buckle Series, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

JUNE 24: Under the Oaks, Crawford County Fairgrounds,

Buckle Series, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

JULY 29: MW Pony Pals

Buckle Series, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

AUG. 5: Karlee Hooker

Memorial Show, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

AUG. 12-13: Farmer Merchant Picnic, War Memorial Park, Ada, OH (Speed)

AUG. 26: Under the Oaks, Crawford County Fairgrounds, Bucyrus, OH (Pleasure)

SEPT. 22-24: Fall Round Up, Champaign County Fairgrounds, Urbana, OH (Speed/Pleasure)

Ohio Western Horse Association held the February meeting on Feb. 2 at the War Memorial Park in Ada, Ohio. The OWHA Board

continued to review proposed rule changes. One particular rule change that was passed was that leadline for pleasure will now be 8 and under instead of 6 and under. OWHA hopes this will be a benefit to those young riders who are still learning and not quite ready to navigate a class on their own. Rider safety is the upmost importance. OWHA strives to put on horse shows that will benefit those who are new and learning to those who are advanced and competitive.

As always, our OWHA youth are very busy in and out of the

show arena. OWHA would like to congratulate all those youth playing a winter sport on a good season. And a good luck to all those youth members participating in spring sports. Again, we are very proud of our OWHA youth in all their hard work and dedication to sports, academics and various clubs they are involved with.

OWHA would like to thank all those who continue to support our club and participate in our shows. We hope to see lots of new faces this year! Please continue to check our Facebook page with new and updated information.

Buckeye Equestrian Association Rose Watt Clinic Scheduled for July

their happiness for our continued support.

We received a big thank you for our support of The Camelot Center in Southington, Ohio, for their therapeutic riding program. Canter of Ohio whose mission is to rehab and rehome Thoroughbreds who no longer race also sent a heartfelt thank you for our support. Mahoning Saddle Horse that oversees 4-H in our county has expressed

We are planning some exciting events for 2023. Rose Watt has again agreed to have a weekend clinic at the Pure Gold facility in Salem, Ohio. Mark your calendars because you don’t want to miss it. She is going to address riders who have left the sport and thinking about revisiting their love of riding. Also, general horsemanship and lots of fun subjects all helping to better our experience as horse enthusiasts. So, load up your horse and join us for a great weekend. It is July 15 and 16. Rose Watt has a great deal of experience and credentials to her resume. Stay tuned for more details.

Other events coming so watch for our column in the Corral

Mid-Eastern Farriers Association

Mark Your Calendar with the MEFA 2023 Events

The Mid Eastern Farriers Association (MEFA) would like to introduce our officers and directors for 2023. The President is Levi Runnion from Senecaville, Ohio. Vice President is Lori McDade from Canton, Ohio. Treasurer is Tim Dodd from Broadview Heights, Ohio. Secretary is Kaylee Watson from Newcomerstown, Ohio. We have

three directors; Keith Green from Wakeman, Ohio, Sara Hayden from Greensburg, Pa., and Cecil

Geauga Horse and Pony Association

Booth from Thornville, Ohio. Long time MEFA member Randy Luikhart started off the

Changes to Showbill and Rules

days will be May 21 and Aug. 26. The mandatory fair meeting will be Aug. 3.

GHPA has made some changes to the 2023 showbill:

• Trail was moved to the morning while jumping was moved to the afternoon, will still run ‘at will’ in small grandstands.

The Geauga Horse and Pony Association (GHPA) 2023 showbill and rules have been updated and all dates are finalized. The pleasure shows are May 28, June 18, July 9, Aug. 6, which are all Sundays. Clean up

• All ranch classes will be completed first thing in the morning. Halter and showmanship were moved to start after ranch.

• Egg and Spoon was removed.

• Added a W/T Discipline Rail class.

• Generation Gap was moved before the second intermission

Dusty Boots Riding Club

(should allow more time to change).

Also there were a few major changes to rules:

• Walk Trot is open to all ages, however trainers cannot enter.

The rules and showbill have been posted to the GHPA website (and Facebook page). Please remember to review before show season begins. Also, all shows are pre entry as they have been the last few years.

The Saddles and Spurs Youth group elected new officers for 2023. Congratulations to President Marley Grandini, Vice President Morgan Csontos,

New Show Date Added in 2023

exhibitors showing in our rings, and everyone in-between.

NEOHA annual banquet is being held this month on March 25. We will recognize our year end award winners and crown our association Royalty committee. The Royalty committee represents the association for the year at horse shows, in the community, and upholds the ideals of NEOHA.

This year Dusty Boots and NEOHA had a fantastic turnout. We take pride in each and every individual who takes part in our organization from the people working in the entry booth, to the

In 1941, Dusty Boots Riding Club was formed to create interest in riding, training, and care of horses. In 1944, the club held their first horse show at the county fairgrounds. In 1980 it was decided to start a local open circuit and give end of the season

awards to top point accumulators at the approved shows, as the breed associations do. Since its formation the association has gained interest not only in Ashtabula County, but also in surrounding counties of Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Most of the shows are held at the Ashtabula County Fairgrounds in Jefferson, Ohio. Dusty Boots holds their meetings on the first Tuesday of each month in Jefferson, Ohio, and is open to anyone who wants to come and voice their ideas and thoughts to better the association.

NEOHA would like to say thank you again to everyone who

Febuary clinic with a presentation on how to read and use X-rays as a farrier.

2023 MEFA EVENTS

MAY 13: Jason Hill will be holding a clinic called ‘Every and all things barshoes’.

JUNE 17: Michael Boal will be holding a clinic called ‘Tuning your shoeing tools and other maintenance’.

AUG. 5: Roy Bloom will be holding a clinic called ‘hands on tong making’.

OCT. 6-7: We will have the MEFA contest.

Rayan Stoops will be holding a clinic called ‘shoeing for the club footed horse’. The date is yet to be determined.

DEC. 16: MEFA Christmas party.

Secretary Hadleigh Humphreyes, and Treasurers Laila Raico and Mylie Burns.

Coming this fall there will be feed/body scoring and basic first aid/common livestock related injury clinics open to all GHPA youth club members.

A HUGE THANKS

GHPA thanks Big Dee’s Tack for their generous support of our organization through their Bonus Buck’s program. Likewise, thank you to Schneider’s Saddlery for their generous support. We really appreciate the support that both of these wonderful companies give to us.

makes our shows possible and a special thank you to Big Dee’s and Schneiders Saddlery.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

Mark your calendar with our 2023 show dates:

JUNE 11: Jefferson

JULY 1-2: Jefferson

JULY 30: Trumbull

AUG. 20: Blue Lakes

AUG. 27: Jefferson

A couple of things to note: The normal (50+ year) tradition of having a show on July 4 is being moved to a weekend date of the first and second of July. We also added a new show at Trumbull County Fairgrounds.

The Cowboy Perseverance Ranch

It’s Not Really Ours

Afew months ago, we started something new for our lesson program. We come up with a theme for the entire month and that is our focus. In the spirit of Christmas, our theme was ‘The Gift Of Giving’. Each lesson student, whether an adult or child, was to give their lesson sessions to a special someone in their life and they had to teach them basic horsemanship skills. During the last two weeks of December, we try to give the horses a welldeserved break which leaves us with two weeks of regular lessons. This was an amazingly fun and incredible eye opening experience for all involved.

There were unexpected emotions that were experienced by many. For example, many of the lesson students had a difficult time clearly explaining the basics of riding. They said they knew what to do but weren’t sure how to explain it. Some became

impatient with their guest, especially if it was a parent or sibling. The one emotion that impressed upon me the most, and was also the inspiration for this article, were a couple kids that had a difficult time donating their saddle time to someone else.

During one lesson, the question was asked by a student if I was going to give her the payment for the lesson, and she was serious! The mom and I chuckled and I told the young lady that this was a discussion for her and her parents. Another student, who brings his own horse to the lessons, didn’t want anyone else, including his mother and father, to ride his horse. He was very gracious to not show those emotions, but it was shared with me later about his feelings. This wasn’t the only time he had expressed a possessive attitude towards others using his horse or equipment.

During December our topic for the devotions were about giving and how Jesus came here in human form to freely give us the

opportunity to have the ultimate gift, salvation. He knew his life was not his own and he sacrificed so much for us. At the beginning of January, I shared this verse to explain how everything we have is not really our own. Colossian 1:16 states “For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities, all things were created by him and for him.” This verse clearly states that all things were created by him but that they were also created for him. It doesn’t say he created some things, and one could also question why were all things created for him when he already has everything?

God entrusts all of us with a variety of opportunities, abilities, and possessions. So many people work very hard for what they have acquired. Others who may not be able to provide for themselves, like children, may be blessed that there is someone who has the ability to provide for them and can nurture their passions. We are not all given the same or equal amounts of things. No matter how or what has been provided God is asking us to join in taking care of it and use it wisely. We need to be completely honest with ourselves about our perspective on what we’ve been given. What we have is not about ownership but stewardship.

Ownership is the act or right of possessing something. We may have a tendency to put boundaries around things we own which can come across as selfish and extremely possessive. When our oldest son, Shea, was 2 years old we had some of the little neighborhood friends over to play with him. They came in and got out his basket of toys. He unexpectedly started running to each child, grabbing toys out of their hands, yelling very loudly, “mine, mine, mine!” He definitely displayed a surprising, yet comical, child’s perspective of having boundaries and possessive ownership.

The Christian definition of stewardship according to Christianity.com is managing and utilizing intelligently the gifts that God has given. When we take the perspective that all we have truly belongs to God and we give generously

than we are honoring God.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 explains “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” I can tell you from personal experience that it can be a difficult concept to understand that what I have isn’t mine, especially when it comes to tithing and giving up my time. Proverbs 11:25 is very reassuring, it says “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” The world teaches us to hold on to as much as possible. In my Life Application Bible, a part of the explanation for this verse says that when we give, God supplies us with more so that we can give more. Rob and I have felt so blessed with our barn and business. When an opportunity comes up for us to share something we have in order to help someone else, we do our best to make it happen. We have seen how we have been blessed by changing our perspective on what we have been given.

My friends, the last part of Philippians 2:4 can be used as a powerful prayer for us. “Lord please help me to not look to my own interests but to the interest of others.” Amen!

What do you have to gain by this? God’s approval! May you be blessed on your ride!

The Corzatt family owns and operates the Cowboy Perseverance Ranch (CPR) in Marengo, Ohio. CPR is a faith based operation and our mission is to build a strong foundation and relationship with our training horses and students. We are blessed to be able to provide western horsemanship lessons infused with biblical scripture to students of all ages. One student has described her time here as “CPR for the soul!” Visit our website at www.cpranch. wixsite.com/home or follow us on Facebook.

DISCLAIMER: The Horsemen’s Corral has made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this calendar of events. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. The Corral does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained herein. Where possible, event contact information is provided. Please “Call

MARCH 2023

MARCH 1 — Wednesday Night Barrel

Jackpots, Treharne’s Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271, dttrainingcenter@ gmail.com

MARCH 1-5 — Indiana Quarter Horse Association Shamrock Shuffle, C Bar C Arena, 253 W. Stardust Rd., Cloverdale, IN. FMI: Kathy Avolt, 765-714-4324, www. AnEquineProduction.com

MARCH 3 — Winter Barrel Racing Series Show, 7 p.m., Rosebud Ranch, 7440 Cox Road, Bellevue, MI. FMI: 269-720-6507

MARCH 4 — Team Roping Saddle Series, Treharne’s Training Center, 49053 Fredericktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271, dttrainingcenter@ gmail.com

MARCH 4 — Wayne County 4H Horse & Pony Tack Sale, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wayne County Fairgrounds, 10871 Quirk Rd., Belleville, MI. Melissa, 734-751-1022, heylis529@yahoo.com

MARCH 4 — Paris Stockyards Riding Horse Sale, 1120 Millersburg Rd., Paris, KY. FMI: Brandon Browning, 859-462-1728

MARCH 4 — Kentucky Equine Hospital Spring Wellness Clinic, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 9460 Shelbyville Rd., Simpsonville, KY. FMI: 502722-5079, www.kentuckyequinehospital. com

MARCH 4-5 — Foster Equine Boarding & Rescue Snowball Series, 60500 Patch Rd., New Concord, OH. FMI: 740-291-3556, fosterequinerescue@gmail.com, www. facebook.com/fosterequine

MARCH 4-5 — Lakeside Arena Hunter Jumper Show, Lakeside Arena, Frankfort, KY. FMI: Bruce Brown, 859-489-4885, lakesidearena.org

MARCH 4-5 — Snowbird Dressage, Kentucky Horse Park Covered Arena, Lexington, KY. FMI: Julie Congleton, 859846-4889, snowbirdseries2020@gmail.com

MARCH 5 — Breakaway Series, Treharne’s Training Center, 49053 Fredericktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-6921271, dttrainingcenter@gmail.com

MARCH 5 — Indoor Mountain Trail Show Series, Shenanigans Stables, 7310 Abbey Rd. NE, Carrollton, OH. FMI: events@shenanigansstables.com, www. shenanigansstables.com

MARCH 5 — Tack Swap, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Adkins Performance Horses, 400 Bobcat Ln., Franklin Furnace, OH. FMI: 740-7275766

MARCH 5 — Randolph County 4-H Horse & Pony Pork Chop Dinner/Tack Swap, Randolph County 4-H Fairgrounds, 1885 S US-27, Winchester, IN. FMI: Shawnda Bond, 765-546-0746, www.facebook.com/ randolphriders4H

MARCH 6-10 — Mid Ohio Draft Horse, Carriage & Tack Sale, Mt. Hope Auction, Mt. Hope, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www. mthopeauction.com

MARCH 8 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant, 567-2076339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

MARCH 8-10 — Boone County Draft & Quarter Horse Sale, Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia, MO. FMI: Joe Raber, 719-431-3137, boonecountyhorseuaction@safecommail. com, www.BooneCountyHorseSale.com

MARCH 10-11 — Waugh Livestock Sales LLC Spring Catalog Sale, Derrickson Agricultural Complex, 25 MSU Farm Drive, Morehead, KY. FMI: Jonathon Waugh, 606-748-9721, www.facebook.com/WLSMuleSale

MARCH 10-12 — 2022-2023 Youth Rodeo Series, Garwood Arena, 2538 Middleton Rd., Columbia, OH. FMI: 330-717-4329, www.garwoodarena.com

MARCH 10-12 — On The Road with Dawn & Clea Half Baked Series, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: www. ontheroadwithdawnandclea.com

MARCH 10-12 — 40th Anniversary Michigan Horse Expo, MSU Livestock Pavilion, 4301 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI. FMI: info@michiganhorsecouncil. com, www.mihorseexpo.com

MARCH 10-12 — IBRA Super Show, C Bar C Expo Center, 253 W Stardust Dr., Cloverdale, IN. FMI: Cindy Harlan, 765-4261457, www.cbarcexpo.com

MARCH 11 — Pure Gold Stables Blizzard Classic Winter Jumper Series, 3325 State Route 45, Salem, OH. FMI: 814-7462664, puregoldstables1@gmail.com, wwwpuregoldequine.com

MARCH 11 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Auction, Mt. Hope, OH. FMI: 330-6746188, www.mthopeauction.com

MARCH 11 — Tiedown and Breakaway

Cold Calves Series, Cooper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. St. Rt. 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: 567-2876339, www.coppermareranch.com

MARCH 11 — Chilled Classic 2023, Sundance Arena, 310 Fredonia Rd., Fredonia, PA. FMI: Alicia, 724-679-0186

MARCH 11 — Trail Pleasure Saddle

Club Coggins Clinic, Logan Hubble Park, Lancaster, KY. FMI: 859-236-6020

you haul”.

MARCH 11 — Branch Co. 4H Horse Leaders Tack Sale & Silent Auction, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Union City Middle School, 435 St. Joseph St., Union City, MI. FMI: Lori, 517-719-1109

MARCH 11-12 — Blue Lakes Farm

Winter Series Contest Show (11th) and Pleasure Show (12th), 14037 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: 440-564-7303, https:// bluelakesfarm.wixsite.com/website, tomsnyder8@gmail.com

MARCH 11-12 — Wyatt Cole Invitational Rodeo, Central Kentucky Ag/Expo Center, Liberty, KY. FMI: 502-239-4000, ibra.us

MARCH 12 — Defiance County OHC Horse Tack & More Sale, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Paulding County Fairgrounds Extension Hall, 503 Fairgrounds Dr., Paulding, OH. FMI: Michelle Cogswell, 260-445-4240

MARCH 12 — Firelands FFA Horse & Livestock Tack Swap, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Firelands High School, 10521 Vermilion Rd., Oberlin, OH. FMI: 440-965-4255 x412107, sfinnegan@firelandsschools.org

MARCH 13-17 — Spring Draft Sale, Topeka Livestock Auction, 601 E. Lake St., Topeka, IN. FMI: 260-593-2522, info@ topekalivestock.com, topekalivestock.com

MARCH 15 — Wednesday Night Barrel Jackpots, Treharne’s Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271, dttrainingcenter@gmail.com

MARCH 15 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant, 567-2076339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

MARCH 15 — Horse Clinic, 6-9 p.m., Seaman Community Center, 17806 State Route 247, Seaman, OH. FMI: Adams County OSU Extension, 937-544-2339, Purdin.19@osu.edu, Adams.osu.edu

MARCH 17 — Winter Barrel Racing Series Double Point Show, 7 p.m., Rosebud Ranch, 7440 Cox Rd., Bellevue, MI. FMI: Stassi Pyne, 269-720-6507

MARCH 17-18 — Wild Horse & Burro Sale, Champions Center, 4122 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: https://www.blm. gov/programs/wild-horse-and-burro/ adoption-and-sales/events

MARCH 18 — Buckeye Mini Horse & Donkey Auction, Wayne County Fairgrounds, 199 Vanover St., Wooster, OH. FMI: Daniel Schrock, 330-763-0905

Geauga Horse & Pony Association 2023 OPEN HORSE SHOWS

Geauga County Fairgrounds — Burton, Ohio

Regular Class Entry Fee: $8 per class or $65 Show All Day (same horse, same rider)

Jackpot Classes: $12 entry fee with 80% payback + $100 (**class must have 5 entries to qualify for payback)

Open Class Paybacks: 1st - $10, 2nd - $7, 3rd - $4 (**class must have 5 entries to qualify for payback)

W/T and Novice Awards: 1st through 6th place ribbons in each class

Grounds and Office Fee: $10 per exhibitor or $15 per famiy

1. W/T Ranch Riding Pattern

2. Limited Ranch Riding Pattern

3. Open Ranch Riding Pattern

4. PATTERSON FRUIT FARM $100 added Jackpot Ranch

Riding Pattern

5. W/T Ranch Horse Rail

6. Limited Ranch Horse Rail

7. Open Ranch Horse Rail

8. Halter (W/T, Novice, Open)

9. Ranch Halter

10. W/T Showmanship (E/W)

11. Open Showmanship (E/W)

PLEASE NOTE: Exhibitors may not enter both Ranch Rail and Western Pleasure with same horse and rider combination.

A. SPECIAL CLASS — Shankless Showmanship (6/12 Show)

• INTERMISSION — 30 MINUTES •

12. W/T English Equitation

13. Novice (18 & U) English Equitation

14. Open English Equitation

B. $100 Added Jackpot English Equitation (5/28 & 7/9 Shows)

15. W/T Hunter Under Saddle

16. Novice (18 & U) Hunter Under Saddle

17. Open Hunter Under Saddle

C. $100 Added Jackpot Hunter Under Saddle (6/18 & 8/6 Shows)

18. Lead Line (6 & Under) & EWD Riders

19. Generation Gap (**see description)

All entries must be completed and paid for online by 10 a.m. on SATURDAY before show. Visit www.ghpa.us for online show entry form, rules, regulations and how to qualify for year-end awards.

• INTERMISSION •

D. SPECIAL CLASS (5/28, 7/9 & 8/6 Shows ONLY) (**See description)

20. W/T Discipline Rail (E/W)

21. Novice Discipline Rail (E/W)

22. Open Discipline Rail (E/W)

23. W/T Western Horsemanship

24. Novice (18 & U) Western Horsemanship

25. Open Western Horsemanship

E. $100 Added Jackpot Western Horsemanship (6/18 & 8/6 Shows)

26. W/T Western Pleasure

27. Novice (18 & U) Western Pleasure

28. Open Western Pleasure

F. $100 Added Jackpot Western Pleasure (5/28 & 7/9 Shows)

**Classes 29-32 run concurrently and at will in Small Grandstand from 8:30-11:30 a.m. 29. W/T Trail & W/T Ranch Trail (run together)

**Exhibitors may only show in one trail class per horse and rider combination.

SPECIAL CLASSES

See GHPA Show Rules & Regulations for specific class rules

5/28 Class D - Bareback Equitation (English or Western)

6/18 Class A - Shankless Showmanship

7/9 Class D - Surprise Equitation (English or Western)

8/6 Class D - Pairs Pattern (English or Western) Special Awards for these classes!

Generation Gap Class — Class 19 Entire Class is W/T — Open to Any Pair with Required minimum 10-year age difference in riders. See GHPA Show Rules & Regulations for specific class rules

5/28 Showmanship (E or W)

6/18 Let’s Have Fun Discipline Rail (E or W)

7/9 Western Horsemanship

8/6 Barrels

Year-End High Point Award for Winning Pair!

DAILY HIGH-POINT TROPHIES AT EACH SHOW W/T, NOVICE, OPEN & RANCH

A list of classes counting toward year-end high point will be posted and available in entry booth.

W/T classes are open to all ages, including youth & adults new to riding as well as adults who are showing an inexperienced horse.

**TRAINERS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO SHOW IN ANY W/T CLASS**

**Classes 33-38 run concurrently and at will in Small Grandstand from 12-3 p.m.

33. W/T Equitation Over Cross Rails

34. W/T Working Hunter Over Cross Rails

35. W/T/C Equitation Over Cross Rails

36. W/T/C Working Hunter Over Cross Rails

37. Equitation Over Fences (2.0 ft)

38. Hunter Over Fences (2.0 ft)

Ground Roping: 6/23 & 8/11 Next to the GHPA Barn.

Contesting Entry Fee: $8 per class

Contesting Timing Fee: $2 per exhibitor

Jackpot Classes: $12 entry fee with 80% payback + $100 (**class must have 5 entries for payback)

W/T Awards: 1st through 6th place ribbons in each class

Youth and Adult Class Paybacks: 80% payback per class (**class must have 5 entries to qualify for payback)

Grounds and Office Fee: $10 per exhibitor or $15 per family

** No crossing divisions between any GHPA shows **

All entries must be completed and paid for online by 10 a.m. on THURSDAY before show.

www.ghpa.us for online show entry form

All exhibitors are required to wear western boots, long sleeve collared shirt (tucked and buttoned), western hat or helmet (helmet required for all youth 18 and under), and jeans or long pants.

MARCH 18 — Rockin R Ranch Youth Rodeo, Rodeo Run Arena, 11641 Alspach Rd. NW, Canal Winchester, OH. FMI: Raynelle Rickly, 740-538-1491, www.facebook.com/ rockinrranchyouthrodeoassociation

MARCH 18 — Carhartt Classic Fuzzy Performance Show Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Rte. 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: 567-207-6339, www.coppermareranch.com

MARCH 18 — Two Minds, One Mission Brain-Based Horsemanship, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sand Hill Stables, 4311 State Route 303, Mantua, OH. FMI: 724-456-0237, www.horseofadifferentcolor.org

MARCH 18 — Licking Valley Raiders Tack Auction, 4 p.m. (tack 6 p.m.), Licking Valley High School, 100 Hainsview Dr., Newark, OH. FMI: 740-404-8714

MARCH 18 — Seminar Series - Equine

Endocrine Diseases, 11 a.m., Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supplies, 9440 St. Rt. 14, Streetsboro, OH. FMI: 330-626-5000, www. bigdweb.com

MARCH 18 — Casino Classic All Breed

Horse Sale, Oak Grove, 777 Winners Way, Oak Grove, KY. FMI: Scotty, 502-664-6561

MARCH 18 — Kentucky Equine Hospital

Spring Wellness Clinic, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 9460 Shelbyville Rd., Simpsonville, KY. FMI: 502722-5079, www.kentuckyequinehospital.com

MARCH 18 — Davis Ranch Fuzzy Show

2023, 11 a.m., 385 East US Hwy. 150, Hardinsburg, IN. FMI: David Davis, 812-6205707, dave@daviddavishorsemanship.com

MARCH 18 — Ionia 4H Tack Sale, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ionia High School, 250 E Tuttle Rd., Ionia, MI. FMI: Candace Hall, 616-308-8188

MARCH 18 — Lapeer Equestrian Team Tack Sale Fundraiser, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Lapeer Center for Innovation, 170 Millville Rd., Lapeer, MI. FMI: Amanda Dixon, 810-6143691, lapeerequestrianteam@yahoo.com

MARCH 18 — Midnight Madness Fun Show, Kentucky Cowtown Arena, Williamstown, KY. FMI: Amy, 859-801-6606

MARCH 18-19 — Spring Fling Open Horse Show, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: Buckeye Equestrian Events, 740-6104129, horsejudge125@gmail.com, www. buckeyeequestrianevents.com

MARCH 18-19 — Outlaw Mounted Shooters Saddle Series, The Circle Bar C Ranch, 1424 Bluegrass Pkwy., LaGrange, KY. FMI: 502-322-4861, circlebarc95@yahoo. com, www.circlebarcranch.com

MARCH 18-19 — Lakeside Arena Hunter Jumper Show, Lakeside Arena, Frankfort, KY. FMI: Bruce Brown, 859-489-4885, lakesidearena.org

MARCH 19 — The 37th Annual Great Tack Exchange, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Greene County Expo Center & Fairgrounds, 120 Fairgrounds Rd., Xenia, OH. FMI: 513-4091344, greattackexchange.webs.com

MARCH 19 — IBRA Show, Yankeetown Arena, 13334 E. State Rd. 160, Henryville, IN. FMI: Nat Stewart, 812-736-3759, stewartperformancehorses.com

MARCH 19 — Covered Bridge Pony Club

Combined Test, 7718 Rose Island Road, Prospect, KY. FMI: Peggi, 502-550-2640

MARCH 22 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant Fatzinger, 567-207-6339

MARCH 23-26 — Road To The Horse, Kentucky Horse Park Alltech Arena, Lexington, KY. FMI: 325-736-5000, www. roadtothehorse.com

MARCH 24-25 — 4-R Sales Spring Spectacular, United Producers Livestock Barn, 4350 Louisville Rd., Bowling Green, KY. FMI: Buck Ryan, 270-723-5855

MARCH 24-26 — Amberley Snyder Barrel Racing Clinic, Pine Creek Arena, 23937 Big Pine Rd., South Bloomingville, OH. FMI: Deana Davis, 740-641-6543

MARCH 24-26 — Launder The Loot Show, WB Ranch, 1640 CR-B, Swanton, OH. FMI: Facebook: Launder The Loot

MARCH 24-26 — AQHA/KyQHA Special Event - Poles & Barrels, Briken Hill Arena, 1509 Red House Road, Richmond, KY. FMI: Kay Kass, 859-229-2416, kyhorseshowsec@ gmail.com

MARCH 25 — Ride-A-Test with Sara Justice, Brecksville Stables, 11921 Parkview Dr., Brecksville, OH. FMI: Classical Attraction Dressage Society, 234804-8735, CADSrider@gmail.com, www. cadsdressage.org

MARCH 25 — 1-Day Back In The Saddle Clinic, Terry Myers Training Center, 4170 Stover Rd., Ostrander, OH. FMI: 740-6661162, www.TMTrainingCenter.com

MARCH 25 — Horse Health Day, Alexandria Fairgrounds, 100 Fairgrounds Road, Alexandria, KY. FMI: Katie Lauer, 859-444-0204, nkhn@nkhn.info

MARCH 25 — Medina Creative Therapy

Ranch Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 12-4 p.m., 5200 Lake Road, Medina, OH. FMI: Jeanne, 330-725-2714, https://www.facebook. com/pages/Medina-Creative-TherapyRanch/479204838879021

MARCH 25 — Paul Frazier Memorial Combined Test and Dressage Show, Kentucky Horse Park Dressage Complex, Lexington, KY. FMI: 859-231-7066, paulfrazershow.org

MARCH 25 — Chilled Classic 2023, Sundance Arena, 310 Fredonia Rd., Fredonia, PA. FMI: Alicia, 724-679-0186

MARCH 25 — Team Sorting Jackpot Buckle Series, Crazy Horse Arena, 5678 E 400 N, Urbana, IN. FMI: Vanessa, 269-591-1542

MARCH 25-27 — OMIQHA Warm Up Show, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: Dan Klaus, 419-307-9212, dsmklaus@gmail. com, www.omiquarterhorseassn.com

MARCH 26 — Wood County Horseman’s Flea Market, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wood County Jr. Fair Building, 13800 W. Poe Rd., Bowling Green, OH. FMI: Catherine Kramp, 567-322-1060, ckramp221@gmail. com

MARCH 26 — Spring Run Dressage Show, Spring Fun Farm, 10200 Covered Bridge Rd., Prospect, KY. FMI: 502-643-2364, susanharris54@me.com

MARCH 31 — Winter Barrel Racing Series Show, 7 p.m., Rosebud Ranch, 7440 Cox Rd., Bellevue, MI. FMI: Stassi Pyne, 269720-6507

MARCH 31 — IBRA Show, Hoosier Horse Park, 7105 S. Kern St., Nineveh, IN. FMI: Penny Barth, 812-406-8512, www.ibra.us

MARCH 31-APRIL 2 — Pinto Horse Association of Ohio Spring Fling, Garwood Arena, 2538 Middleton Rd., Columbiana, OH. FMI: www.ohiopinto. net, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/253934485544

MARCH 31-APRIL 2 — Blue Ribbon Springtime Classic Horse Show, Champions Center, 4122 Layboure Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: 937-623-7934, blueribbonhs@ sbcglobal.net

MARCH 31-APRIL 2 — 3rd Annual Indiana Equine Roundup, C Bar C Expo Center, Cloverdale, IN. FMI: Brice Howell, marketing@cbarcexpo.com, cbarcexpo. com/IER

MARCH 31-APRIL 2 — Bourbon-TrailRiding Girls Weekend Getaway, Lazy 4 T Ranch, 2479 Sovall Rd., Elizabethtown, KY. FMI: Michelle, 270-268-6631, mlthompson@ bbtel.com

APRIL 2023

APRIL 1 — Obstacle & Sensory Clinic with Challenge Obstacle Course, Knox County Horse Park, 7360 Thayer Ridge Rd., Mt. Vernon, OH. FMI: Region, 740-497-1146, equinetrainingpartners@gmail.com

APRIL 1 — 2023 Ruggles Arena Speed Show, 2651 Township Road 155, Cardington, OH.

FMI: Janet Ruggles, 419-210-7204

APRIL 1 — Indoor Mountain Trail Show Series, Shenanigans Stables, 7310 Abbey Rd. NE, Carrollton, OH. FMI: events@shenanigansstables.com, www. shenanigansstables.com

APRIL 1-2 — YEDA Show, WB Ranch, 1640 Co. Rd. B, Swanton, OH. FMI: Molly Niese, 419-957-7379, mniese@showyeda.com, www.showyeda.com

APRIL 1-2 — YEDA Show, The Equine Center at Grange Park, 169 Homan Lane, Centre Hall, PA. FMI: Molly, 419-957-7379, mniese@ showyeda.com, www.showyeda.com

APRIL 2 — Spring Equine Clinic w/Megan Davidson & Leeana Hackworth, 11 a.m., LM Davdison Farm, 7533 TR 75, Green Springs, OH. FMI: Megan, 567-230-4437

Corral Calendar

Continued from page 50

APRIL 2 — Final Public Sale, Round-2-It Ranch, 10734 N 800 E, Ossian, IN. FMI: 260-639-6657, r2it@yahoo.com

APRIL 5 — Wednesday Night Barrel

Jackpots, Treharne’s Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271, dttrainingcenter@ gmail.com

APRIL 5 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant Fatzinger, 567207-6339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

APRIL 6-8 — Indiana Spring Classic Show, Michiana Event Center, 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana, IN. FMI: www. indianaspringclassic.weebly.com

APRIL 7 — The Shipshewana Good Friday Horse Auction, 345 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana, IN. FMI: 260-768-4129, info@shipshewanatradingplace.com, www.shipshewanatradingplace.com

APRIL 7-8 — 2-Day Easter Special Sale, Sugarcreek Stockyards, 102 Buckeye Street, Sugarcreek, OH. FMI: 330-8311720, www.sugarcreekstockyard.com

APRIL 7-8 — Madison County Open Horse Show, Madison County Fairgrounds, London, OH. FMI: Morgan Krebs, 740-5061429

APRIL 8 — Brecksville Cleanup, 12-4 p.m., Brecksville Stables, 11921 Parkview Dr., Brecksville, OH. FMI: Classical Attraction Dressage Society, 234-8048735, CADSrider@gmail.com, www. cadsdressage.org

APRIL 8 — Horse Sale, Mt. Hope Auction, Mt. Hope, OH. FMI: 330-674-6188, www. mthopeauction.com

APRIL 8 — Terry Myers 1 Day Ride-In-Sync Clinic, Blue Magnum Farm, 1044 Twp. Rd. 286, Richmond, OH. FMI: Amanda Gump, 740-512-6748

APRIL 8 — Carhartt Classic Fuzzy Performance Show Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: 567-2076339, www.coppermareranch.com

APRIL 8 — Pioneer City Riding Club Fuzzy Fun Show, 10 a.m., Washington County Fairgrounds, Marietta, OH. FMI: Melissa Beatty, 740-883-0819, www. pioneercityridingclub.weebly.com

APRIL 8 — Chilled Classic 2023, Sundance Arena, 310 Fredonia Rd., Fredonia, PA. FMI: Alicia Zygarowski, 724-679-0186

APRIL 12 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant, 567-2076339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

APRIL 13-16 — Equine Affaire, Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. FMI: 740-8450085, www.equineaffaire.com

APRIL 14-15 — Chupp’s 30th Annual Standardbred Auction, Michiana Event Center, 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana, IN. FMI: 260-768-7616

APRIL 14-16 — On The Road with Dawn and Clea Panty Raid, Champions Center, Springfield, OH. FMI: www. ontheroadwithdawnandclea.com

APRIL 15 — Tiedown and Breakaway Cold Calves Series Finals, Cooper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. St. Rt. 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: 567-2876339, www.coppermareranch.com

APRIL 15 — 1-Day Ride-In-Sync Clinic, Terry Myers Training Center, 4170 Stover Rd., Ostrander, OH. FMI: 740-666-1162, www.TMTrainingCenter.com

APRIL 15 — Premier Mount N Trail Obstacle Competition 2023 Series, Pine Creek Horseman’s Camp, 23937 Big Pine Rd., South Bloomingville, OH. FMI: premiermountntrail@gmail.com, www. premiermountntrail.com

APRIL 15 — Kal Val Saddle Club Pleasure & Speed Show, 9853 S. 34th St., Scotts, MI. FMI: kvsaddleclub@gmail.com

APRIL 15 — Norma Agnew Memorial Hairy Horse Show, 8:30 a.m., MSU Pavilion, 4301 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI. FMI: CarlaM@ msu.edu

APRIL 15 — Eaton Special Riding Open House/Tack/Craft Show, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1790 Packard Hwy., Charlotte, MI. FMI: Julie Childs, 517-977-5058

APRIL 15 — Grayson County Saddle Club Show, 4783 Shrewsbury Rd., Leitchfield, KY. FMI: Barney Langley, 270-589-0293, www. facebook.com/graysoncountysaddleclub

APRIL 15 — Twistn B Ranch Show, 3435 S. Pleasant Ridge Rd., Scottsburg, IN. FMI: Penny Barth, 812-406-8512.

APRIL 15-16 — Ashland Paint and Plain Saddle Club Horse Show, Ashland County Fairgrounds, 2042 Claremont Ave., Ashland, OH. FMI: 330-317-0945, paintandplaininfo@yahoo.com, www. ashlandpaintandplain.com

APRIL 15-16 — Ranch Riding Clinic with Liz Truax, Blue Lakes Farm, 14095 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: Amy Snyder, 440-4798503, cowgirlup73@hotmail.com

APRIL 15-16 — Lower Michigan Horse Association Show, Ingham County Fairgrounds, 700 East Ash St., Mason, MI. FMI: lowermichiganhorseassociation@ gmail.com

APRIL 15-16 — YEDA Show, Midway University Equestrian Center, 512 E. Stephens St., Midway, KY. FMI: Molly Niese, 419-957-7379, mniese@showyeda.com, www.showyeda.com

APRIL 16 — Massillon Saddle Club Fun Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, www.rideatmsc.weebly.com

APRIL 16 — Pure Gold Stables Blizzard Classic Winter Jumper Series, 3325 State Route 45, Salem, OH. FMI: 814-746-2664, wwwpuregoldequine.com

APRIL 19 — Wednesday Night Barrel Jackpots, Treharne’s Training Center, 49053 Fredricktown Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: 330-692-1271, dttrainingcenter@gmail.com

APRIL 19 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant, 567-2076339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

APRIL 19 — Meadow Lake Spring Classic, 128 Ashley Inn Way, Bryantsville, KY. FMI: 859-304-0070, manager@meadowlakeec. com, www.MeadowLakeEC.com

APRIL 21 — Martin’s 52nd Annual Spring Auction, Lebanon Fairgrounds Expo Center, Lebanon, PA. FMI: 717-354-6671, www. martinauctioneers.com

APRIL 21-23 — Ohio Ranch Horse Association Show, Hendersons Arena, 739 Van Fossen Rd., Jackson, OH. FMI: Amy, 740-819-8446, www.ohioranchhorseassociation.com

APRIL 21-23 — Foundation Quarter Horse Registry-Michigan Affliliate, Midland County Fairgrounds, Midland, MI. FMI: 517-404-2929, michiganfqhr@gmail.com, www.michigan-fqhr.com

S Please turn to page 54

Corral Calendar

Lil ’ Hooves, Big Hearts

Miniature Horse Charity Fun Show

Benefitting Knox County Horse Park

May 13, 2023 • 11 a.m.

Knox County Horse Park

7360 Thayer Road, Mt. Vernon, OH 43050

* $3 per class * $5 ground fee per horse Ribbons to 6th place • Food/Water Available

KaelynJudgeCooper

7. Mare and Foal (under 1 year)

8. Miniature Horse Showmanship

9. Pee-Wee Showmanship (7 and under)

10. Pee-Wee Leadline (7 and under)

11. Pee-Wee Walk Class (7 and under)

— BREAK —

12. Pleasure Driving Single Adult

13. Pleasure Driving Single Youth (17 and under)

14. Pleasure Driving Pee-Wee (must have adult in cart)

15. Barrels Driven or Pee Wee Riden!

16. Barrels In Hand or Lead Line

17. In Hand Trail

18. Musical Buckets (bring a bucket, any size!)

19. Costume

Each exhibitor receives an entry for door prizes! Thank you for exhibiting!

• Ribbons to 6th place!

• Adults only exhibiting stallions

• No dogs on grounds please

• Show committee, staff and volunteers are not responsible for any accidents and/or loss should any occur

• Miniature horses should measure 38” and under

• 17 and under may have adult in cart

• Show clothes not required, no shorts, tank tops or open toed shoes

• Helmets encouraged for all and required for pee-wee drivers/riders

For more information: Cathy Foster (740) 972-8525 or horseplay120@gmail.com

www.lilhooves.weebly.com

Continued from page 52

APRIL 21-23 — Michigan Justin Morgan Horse Association Spring Classic, Ingham County Fairgrounds, 700 E. Ash St., Mason, MI. FMI: mjmha@mjmha.com, www. mjmha.com

APRIL 22 — Schooling Show, Brecksville Stables, 11921 Parkview Dr., Brecksville, OH. FMI: Classical Attraction Dressage Society, 234-804-8735, CADSrider@gmail. com, www.cadsdressage.org

APRIL 22 — Portage County OHC Earth Day Trail Clean Up, 9 a.m., West Branch State Park, 5570 Esworthy Rd., Ravenna, OH. FMI: www.facebook.com/ Portage-County-Ohio-Horseman-CouncilNEOTRA-194147080613531

APRIL 22 — Ohio Valley Team Penning Association Sorting, 9:30 a.m., Treharne Training Center, 49053 Fredericktown/ Clarkson Rd., Negley, OH. FMI: John May, 814-397-3265, https://www.facebook. com/ohiovalleyteampenning

APRIL 22 — LaRue Livestock Auction Saddle Horse and Pony Sale, 1059 Richwood LaRue Road, LaRue, OH. FMI: 231-246-0290

APRIL 22 — Cattle Sorting, Smoke Rise Ranch, 6751 Hunterdon Rd., Glouster, OH. FMI: 740-767-2624, smokeriseranch@ gmail.com, www.smokeriseranch.com

APRIL 22 — Open Fuzzy Spring Horse Show, 9 a.m., Madison County Fairgrounds Covered Arena, 205 Elm St., London, OH. FMI: Joceyln Wilson, 740-590-7267, www. soqpa.com

APRIL 22 — Reality Dreams Open Horse Show, Fairfield County Fairgrounds, Lancaster, OH. FMI: Karen, 740-385-3431

APRIL 22 — Chilled Classic 2023, Sundance Arena, 310 Fredonia Rd., Fredonia, PA. FMI: Alicia Zygarowski, 724-679-0186

APRIL 22 — Madison Co. Quarter Horse Association Equine Vendor & Treasures Market, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Madison County Kentucky Fairgrounds Indoor Arena, 3237 Old Irvine Rd., Richmond, KY. FMI: demetriakimball@yahoo.com

APRIL 22-23 — Ottawa County Horse Foundation Spring Fuzzy Show (Speed and Performance), Ottawa County Fairgrounds, 7870 W. State Route 163, Oak Harbor, OH. FMI: Jason Eck, 734-771-0681, ottawacountyhorsefoundation@gmail. com, www.ochf.net

APRIL 22-23 — Barrel and Pole Clinic, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. St. Rt. 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: 567-207-6339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

APRIL 22-23 — Rockin R Ranch Youth Rodeo, Rodeo Run Arena, 11641 Alspach Rd. NW, Canal Winchester, OH. FMI: Raynelle Rickly, 740-538-1491, raynelle. rockinr@outlook.com, www.facebook. com/rockinrranchyouthrodeoassociation

APRIL 22-23 — Pennsylvania Quarter Horse Association Show, Center County Fairgrounds, 169 Homan Lane, Centre Hall, PA. FMI: 814-880-0965, pqha@pqha.org, www.pqha.org

APRIL 22-23 — Barb Amato (Bradshaw) Clinic, Turn & Burn Arena, 60 Bunson Lane, Glen Easton, WV. FMI: 304-238-4669

APRIL 23 — Massillon Saddle Club Fun Show, 12680 Sally St. SW, Massillon, OH. FMI: 330-844-4041, massillonsaddleclub@ gmail.com, www.rideatmsc.weebly.com

APRIL 23 — Family Fun Show, Smoke Rise Ranch, 6751 Hunterdon Rd., Glouster, OH. FMI: 740-767-2624, smokeriseranch@ gmail.com, www.smokeriseranch.com

APRIL 26 — Weekday Warriors Spring Series, Copper Mare Ranch, 6090 N. State Route 53, Tiffin, OH. FMI: Grant, 567-2076339, coppermareranch@gmail.com

APRIL 26-29 — 77th River Ridge, Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH. FMI: Barbara Dunham, 740-352-8562, www. riverridgehs.org

APRIL 27-30 — Michigan Reining Horse Association Show, Midland County Fairgrounds, Midland, MI. FMI: 616-5812230, reiningmichigan@gmail.com, www. mrha.org

APRIL 27-30 — The National Drive Spring, Hoosier Horse Park, Edinburgh, IN. FMI: 317534-7781, thenationaldrive@gmail.com

APRIL 27-30 — IBRA 5th Annual Big Money, Michiana Event Center, 455 E. Farver St., Shipshewana, IN. FMI: kayceeeverett@ yahoo.com, www.dkeverettproductions. com

APRIL 28-30 — Paul Humphrey Break The Mold 3-Day Clinic, Blue Lakes Farm, 14095 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: Amy Snyder, 440-479-8503, cowgirl73@hotmail.com, www.breakingthemoldwithpaul.com

APRIL 28-30 — Beast of the East, Garwood Arena, Columbiana, OH. FMI: npba@npba. us, www.npba.us

APRIL 28-30 — Elkins Creek Weekend Ride, Pedro, OH. FMI: Donnie Orth, 859393-7012, nkhn@nkhn.info

APRIL 28-30 — Ranch Horse Association of Kentucky Show, Lakeside Arena, 1385 Duncan Rd., Frankfort, KY. FMI: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100075521394201

APRIL 28-30 — AQHA/KyQHA Special EventPoles & Barrels, Briken Hill Arena, 1509 Red House Road, Richmond, KY. FMI: Kay, 859229-2416, kyhorseshowsec@gmail.com

APRIL 29 — 2nd Annual Tri-Co Trails Tack Swap, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., 2662 Downing St. SW, East Sparta, OH. FMI: Cindy Krumm, 330-705-2897, ckrumm1958@gmail.com

APRIL 29 — Beginner Sidesaddle Clinic, 9 a.m., Shenanigan Stables, 7310 Abbey Rd. NE, Carrollton, OH. FMI: Wade, 330-2827385, krw1997krw@outlook.com

APRIL 29 — Kal Val Saddle Club Mountain Trail Fundraiser, 9853 S. 34th St., Scotts, MI. FMI: kvsaddleclub@gmail.com

APRIL 29-30 — Northern Ohio Outlaws Shoot, Wayne County Fairgrounds, Wooster, OH. FMI: www.nooutlaws. com, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/183343285741

APRIL 29-30 — Kim Thomas Barrel Racing Clinic, Blue Lake Farms, 14037 Auburn Rd., Newbury, OH. FMI: Amy Snyder, 440-4798503, cowgirlup73@hotmail.com

APRIL 29-30 — Champions All Breed Association Show, Champions Center, 4122 Laybourne Rd., Springfield, OH. FMI: 937324-4353, championscenter05@gmail. com, www.championscenterarena.com

APRIL 29-30 — Southeastern Ohio Horse Show Organization Show, Hartford Fairgrounds, 14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH. FMI: Terri, 614-203-3153

APRIL 29-30 — NKHN Weekend Ride, Elkins Creek, Pedro, OH. FMI: Donnie Orth, 859-393-7012, nkhn@nkhn.info

For more equine events visit our website, www.thehorsemenscorral.com

****

Email your event to michelle@thehorsemenscorral.com

What Tack Should I Use in Western Dressage?

Here we are, finally. We are right on the cusp of show season. I can smell it in the air and feel it in my bones. It’s time to start testing our horses and evaluate our show closet to see what shrunk over winter. We also need to look at our tack for showing. This is the most frequently asked question in western dressage. What tack is legal? Let’s talk about what tack is OK to use per WDAA and USEF rules in western dressage.

The saddle must be a standard American western stock saddle. This means the saddle must have a swell, a seat, a cantle, a skirt, fenders, and western stirrups. Western side saddles are also allowed. Additional optional features include a horn, padding on the seat, bucking rolls, and Tapaderos (except in equitation.) No thigh or knee rolls are permitted. Saddles not permitted are English, Spanish, McClellan, Baroque, Australian, and Endurance. It is also stated that silver does not count extra points or consideration over a good working outfit. The judging is focused on the horse and rider. So, tack is much more conservative than in western pleasure. Special tack or embellishments are less important than good, clean, functional equipment. Having said this, you see riders decked out in their best sparkly clothes and saddles. That is their preference. It does not impact the maneuvers to be performed in the test. That is what is being judged.

Now bits. This is like opening Pandora’s Box. Look at any western dressage Facebook page or website, and you will see as many questions on bits as there are bits. The most common bit seen is the snaffle bit. In Western Dressage, a snaffle can be used on any age horse. (You do use two hands) A snaffle is defined as a bit with no leverage. It is an O-ring, an Eggbut, Full cheek, or D-ring with outside rings no smaller than 2 inches in diameter and no larger than 4 inches.

Here’s the fun part. There are specific measurements for bits. I have found bit-measuring devices, and I use them frequently to determine if bits are legal or not.

The mouthpiece must be round, oval or egg-shaped, and smooth. You are allowed to wrap only with latex. The mouthpiece cannot be less than 5/16 inches and not bigger than 3/4 inch in diameter, measured one inch from the cheekpiece.

Three-piece snaffle is permitted, but the connecting ring cannot be larger than 1 1/4 inches in diameter and not longer than 2 inches. Measuring from top to bottom has to be between 3/8 inch and 3/4 inch. The bit may be solid or barrel mouthed. The bit cannot be sharp, flat, twisted, or have pointed edges. Mullen mouth is also allowed. Another key here is that there cannot be anything on the rings that attached to rein or headstall that would create leverage. Some nonlegal bits are bicycle chain bits, twisted, wire-wrapped, donut-shaped, Kimberwick, half cheek, or anything sharp in the horse’s mouth.

Curb bits are allowed, provided it meets requirements. The shank cannot be longer than 8 1/2 inches. The mouthpiece must be measured in diameter one inch from the shank. It must be between 5/16 inches and ¾ inches. Nothing can protrude above or below the mouthpiece. You can, however, have a roller in the center of the bit.

Jointed mouthpieces, either two or three pieces, are allowed. However, the connecting ring cannot exceed 1 1/4 inches in diameter. A flat bar connecting piece is permitted only if it is 3/8 to 3/4 inch from top to bottom and no longer than 2 inches. It should lay flat in the horse’s mouth. A port is allowed as long as it is smaller than 3 1/2 inches with rollers and covers.

Reins must be attached to the shank. Curb chains and straps are required and must be flat. They cannot be smaller than 1/2 inch. The curb chain can be leather or nylon with adjustable straps. No wire, metal, or rawhide can be used with a curb chain.

Additionally, rolled, rounded, braided, and rawhide curb straps are illegal. A slobber guard is permitted, and rein chains with a spade are also allowed. Curb bits cannot have any mechanical devices on them. Also, slip, gag half cheek, or snaffle with hooks, slots, or donuts are permitted. There cannot be anything attached between the rein and shank that will increase leverage.

The bridle can be any western style bridle. A cavesson or pencil bosal is allowed if you can get two fingers between it and the jowl. Noseband must be smooth. A hackamore is permitted on a horse of any age as long as there is no metal or chains on it. Bitless bridles may be used on any age horse as well. Bitless must be western style and crosses under the horse’s jowls. Side pulls are not permitted.

Additional tack allowed are breastplates, cruppers, protective polostyle wraps that match the horse color as closely as possible, and a whip no longer than 47.2 inches.

Prohibited tack includes a martingale, bit guards, no splint or easy boots, tail bandages, nose covers, blinker, flash, figure eight or dropped nosebands, and mechanical hackamores.

Whew! That is a lot, and it changes. So be sure to read updates on the WDAA and USEF websites. Also, if you have questions about your tack, you can send a picture to a WDAA representative.

Want to know more about Western Dressage? Check out my blog www.horsehappyhour.com. Until next time, enjoy the ride!

Kelley Bitter is the owner of Buckeye Performance Horse Center and The Winning Edge Mental Performance Coaching in Newbury Ohio. A second- generation horsewoman. Kelley began riding and showing at 4 years old. In her teens, she started riding Arabians in various discipline and won several Regional and USEF titles over the last 50 years. Kelley started riding Western Dressage in 2016. In 2018 Kelley attended the WDAA Train the Trainer program. She has won several titles including placing two of her Arabians in the WDAA World show in 2020 top 15. At the WDAA International Challenge 2021 she placed with her Quarter Horse, Arabians and her student received top ten in the Gaited Division. Kelley currently runs The Western Dressage Academy. Kelley also holds certifications as a Mental Performance Coach, Equine Massage Therapy, Equine Laser Therapy and Equine Nutrition. Kelley has also completed the WDAA Judges training and is currently working on her “r” status.

THE MAGIC OF MUD GRID

The weather this winter has kept us guessing, bouts of cold and snow followed by warmer temperatures and rain in a continual cycle. While we may not know from one week to the next if we will have high winds and 60-degree weather or a foot of snow to shovel, there is one thing that is a constant staple if you have horses at home, and that is mud. The fluctuation in temperature has meant that mud has stuck with us through the winter and going into spring it doesn’t seem like it will be drying up anytime soon. Mud is bothersome but can be downright dangerous for our horses to maneuver in and these types of conditions can ruin pastures before they ever get the chance to start growing this spring. Fortunately, there are some great solutions to help mitigate the mud with immediate results.

I was able to talk with Elizabeth Hueftlein of HAHN Plastics (North America) Ltd., about the revolutionary product they manufacture, known as ‘Mud Grids’. These grids are made of 100 percent recycled plastic material and they can be applied directly over existing mud. Hueftlein explained that the mud under the grids works as a ‘glue’ to hold the slabs together, so it is best to lay the grids where mud already exists. Which is one of the reasons that they are such a handy product, most other mud solutions require work to be done before the mud is an issue whereas the grids have an instant application. The grids are just under 20”x 20” and weigh about 15 pounds each. There are tabs around the grids that allow them to fit together.

Hueftlein advised that the reason that the grids work so well is because they allow for the distribution of the weight of the horse over a greater surface area. Horses carry all their weight on a four-point load which is a very concentrated area and why they specifically can cause quite a bit of damage to the ground resulting in issues with mud. The grids allow this weight to be disbursed over the surface, much

like the idea of how snowshoes work. Putting mud grids into action, Hueftlein suggests that placing at least nine grids in an area can give you a good idea of how they work together to stay above the mud. Of course, she recommends that the more grids in an area, the more stability due to the increased distribution of weight on the additional grids.

As far as installation goes, the process is quite simple. The grids can be laid out over top of the existing mud. The only ground preparation needed is to fill in holes or rake down high mound areas, but there is no need to level the area or use any heavy equipment. Hueftlein recommends that the grids are staggered to give them the most stability when laying them down. She also suggested that when laying down the first row, that you wait to step on the grids until you have the next row attached which prevents the tabs from sinking into the mud before they are attached to the next grid. She also advised to then cut the grids, so they have a squared off corner. This can be done with a circular saw using a ½” hard wood blade. By squaring off the corners, it helps prevent a horse from disrupting the edge grids which could cause a ripple effect of shifting and lifting throughout the surface. Similarly, covering the exposed tabs on the edges of the project area will protect them from a misplaced horse hoof. For larger projects you will want to consult the spec sheets to make sure that you are following best practices.

Once the grids are laid down, Hueftlein advises that a layer of material like sand be used to add extra traction over the surface. While the grids have some slip resistant properties, different conditions such as ice and snow require more attention. She also mentioned that some of the projects that she has worked on spread grass seed under the mud grids before laying them out which allowed for grass to grow providing additional traction and grazing opportunity with the roots

Please turn to page 62

Knox County Horse Park Open Weekends for Clinics, Arena Light Donations

Hello, it’s that time of the year...round bale holders are full to keep your horses warm and some mud to add to your woolly hair to keep warm too. It’s that time of year horse people do as much as possible to keep there animals healthy and pray for an easy winter. Unfortunately we all have to do whatever is needed, drain the water hose so you

can use it the next day. Heated buckets make it nice in the winter and they drink more when it’s warm I believe. Frozen ground is probably the worst part of winter, trying to walk on uneven earth is also an unpleasant part of winter. It’s about show time, and it will be here before you know it! Our 2023 schedule is May 20, June 17, July 15, Aug. 29, Sept. 16, Oct. 21 and Oct. 28 will be our Halloween show and awards.

The Magic of Mud Gride

being protected from the horse’s feet. Through the seasons, keeping the grids cleared from manure, debris, and snow, will

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help them to continue to work as intended for many years to come. These impressive grids also come with a manufacture’s warranty.

We have some new and younger blood in the club: Lexi Snyder, Madisyn Weekley, Colton Snyder, Anna Maglott and Shelby Kerr.

We have some open weekends for clinics if anyone is interested in putting on a clinic. We are also still receiving donations for

the arena lights. Don’t forget to sign up for membership; $60 for a family, $25 for an individual and $12 for a youth. Our Facebook page has been the place to get information so continue checking out our page. Thank you for reading.

In addition to application with horses, Hueftlein suggested many other uses for the grids around the barn and home. These grids are great for a range of livestock from cattle to chickens. They can offer a dry space not only for animals to stand on, but as bases around feeders to help prevent hay waste. They can also be used in driveways, for parking heavy equipment, RV’s, horse trailers or anything else that you may need to keep out of the mud. The grids are capable of handling heavy equipment driving over them, so they have applications in industrial and agricultural usage alike. She described that most places that have used mud grid in one situation like a sacrifice area for their horses, will inevitably find many other uses around the farm where they will prove helpful.

When asked if there were any applications where Hueftlein would not suggest use of the Mud Grid, there were only two areas that stood out. First, she advised

that if the ground is more water than mud, such as a very sloppy manure based situation, soil may need to be added to create enough stability to allow the grids to work. The Mud Grids can float in water, so if there is an area that gets a bunch of water run off or goes underwater at certain times in the year, this may not be the best solution. Also, if you are starting a new project where no mud currently exists, she recommends a different product that Hahn Plastics offers—the Paddock Slab. This product does require some initial ground preparation and backfill, but it will prevent mud so it never becomes a problem that needs to be remedied.

Next month, we will cover some additional information on Paddock Slabs and some of the best applications for that product. For more information about Mud Grids, visit www.cashmans.com to check out installation videos and use our calculator to see how many grids you will need for your project.

Lisa Kiley is a lifelong horse enthusiast who has worked in the equine industry and shown horses for many years. She is a proud member of the Cashmans Horse Equipment Team. Cashmans Horse Equipment, located in Delaware, Ohio, has been providing top quality products to the equine and agricultural community for 40 years. They have a commitment to sourcing environmentally conscious merchandise and items made in the U.S.A. Cashmans strives to educate customers and provide products that put safety first so you can enjoy more time with the horses you love. www.cashmans.com

View From the Cheap Seats

Where Are All the Hippos?!

Ireally struggled putting this month’s column together. Latest one yet, sorry Boss! Backed myself into a corner. I’m a board member for an equine therapy foundation and hippotherapy farm. I fill the role of equine liaison so, I had the brilliant idea to write about their foundation’s goals and purpose but, that meant my column would be about something really important for someone else who is trusting me to get it right, be factual, and hopefully encourage much-needed interest in some way. I compiled technical information but it was boring. I inserted layman’s explanations and it became a boring novel. I attempted humor but didn’t want to offend someone and get ‘canceled’. Intermingling it all got me so lost, I couldn’t summarize the point without including or excluding too much background information. Open mouth, here comes the foot.

The extra amazing specialty branch of Hippotherapy and why we all should help channel wonderful horses to these programs to prevent losing our best to sketchy pseudo rescues and trucks bound for the border, not to say that all types of equine therapy, most rescues, and every responsible, accountable auction house isn’t noble and worthy of our respect and support but also, to selflessly make good use on the lazy money-eating poop machine that’s standing in the pasture doing nothing when it could use a stand-up job (see what I mean):

The word hippotherapy literally translates to horse therapy. Everyone is familiar with some facet of therapeutic interaction with horses to cure or at least manage what ails you. No argument that horses have healing powers and their very presence near a person in need has astoundingly successful health benefits. There are zero reasons why

the horse community can’t be more invested in the win-winwin partnership with the equine/ human physiotherapy world.

When it comes to the medically trained therapy professions certified in Physical/Occupation/ Speech Pathology modalities, Hippotherapy certification stands in a class by itself. It’s complicated and intensive. It requires extra training, a whole bunch of helpers, not to mention the perfect horse. No hippos, though. That would be an insurance nightmare. In fact, much like all the other unconventional medical interventions, most major insurance companies don’t consider hippotherapy part of their offered coverage. And qualified hippotherapy sessions that tic all the required boxes are few and far between, making this intervention very inaccessible to most patients and their families. We can change that.

This distinctive therapy protocol is specifically targeted at patients, mostly kids, dealing with life-altering neuromotor challenges. I’m talking about all the neurological, musculoskeletal, congenital, developmental, and degenerative medical nightmares that cripple a patient, tearing the whole family away from the concept of ‘normal’ and ‘healthy’ and ‘easy’. Cerebral palsy, autism, muscular dystrophy, behavioral dysfunctions, traumatic spine and brain injuries. The Big Guns, guys. There are families in your community living everyday with these enormous burdens and they deserve a horse’s time. We can make that happen.

http://www.americanhippotherapyassociation.org

Hippotherapy elevates the biomechanics and neurotransmitter science of horseback riding and equine exposure to the Nth degree. Because hippotherapy has capitalized on the multi-sensory experience of the horse, it’s using all the natural things a horse does to intentional flood the patient with neuron-firing information. For example, the motion of a horse’s undulating hips and pelvis mimics our own. Just twenty minutes of slow, deliberate walking on a horse delivers massive amounts of physiotherapy, sensory stimulation, and focused automatic response triggers to the patient’s mind and body. A major purpose of hippotherapy addresses gait abnormalities and basic core stability. No therapy innovation in a clinical setting duplicates the volume, efficiency, or effects achieved in patients participating in certified hippotherapy sessions. But with all victories, the cost of war. I don’t have to talk about the logistics of care and cost of a horse, let alone as a therapy tool. We can share our hard-earned knowledge and skill sets, advising and participating beyond our own barn doors. A hippotherapy program horse enjoys about the cushiest rock star lifestyle ever. The managing facility must meet the national therapy organization’s stringent certification requirements of operation and maintain good partnerships with conventional medical practitioners who write the patient prescriptions for hippotherapy. Accountability is huge. Patient safety requires a team of side walkers in every session. Horses wear minimal equipment like bareback pads, and always have private one-on-one sessions with their patient and team. The job mostly consists of literally standing, walking, and breathing while calmly ignoring much of the activity happening around it. I’ve seen plenty of horses tolerate much worse under the average flop-plopping exhibitor going around the show ring!

www.chasinghopeequestriancenter.org

www.facebook.com/ChasingHopeTherapyFoundation

Winfield Farm & Forge, Ltd.

Exploring the Arabian/Welsh Sport Pony Cross for Carriage & Dressage

Kevin & Sarah Vas / Owners, Breeders, Artisans Grafton, Ohio / 330-242-3440

Certified hippotherapy combines the easiest chapter of the lesson horse workbook with a safety net of very qualified professionals and educated volunteers following structured exercise plans. It’s about the most impressive use of the horse as a tool to combat thousands of physical and neurological stumbling blocks in the human body, whether hereditary or developed. All while the horse is batting its eyelashes at a bevy of adorable patients and their doting families who are endlessly thankful for its existence. Frankly, hippotherapy work is the million-dollar lottery winner of the service animal industry and the equine community in general could stand to get way more involved in this sector of the horse world. Why? Because let’s be real. You know that horse. You may own that horse or know a friend whose horse is exactly that perfect hippo. That exceptionally mannered, unflappable, seasoned soul

For more information and ways to step up, start here!

Tri-County Trail Association

Tri-County Trails Upcoming Events

We have a lot of fun events coming up at Tri-County Trails! We have two events scheduled for April 2023. The annual Easter Ride and the 2nd Annual Tack Swap. Both events promise to be a great time!

Hippos (continued)

just wasting away its talents. I sit on the board of the Chasing Hope Therapy Foundation because of one violently shaken baby’s unconscionable brain damage and medical complications. I’ve had the honor of cradling him myself when he was just out of the hospital, this little Mighty Mouse with his alarmingly tiny cervical collar stabilizing a

The Easter Ride is scheduled for April 23 and is fun for all ages. There is usually an egg hunt for the kids and a guided trail ride (weather dependent). This is usually the time of year that most are trying to do anything to get out and enjoy the spring-like weather. This is the perfect time for us to try and escape those winter blues and cabin fever we suffered while the weather was cold and rainy. Come on out and enjoy a good time with the kids and celebrate the holiday with us! April 29 will be our second annual tack swap! We have a flyer posted on our Facebook page as well as online on our website.

Reserve your space for a fun time, and remember to bring all that unnecessary tack to sell, or set up a table for crafts, etc.! Share the details with your friends and family. There will be concessions offered by a local 4-H club to purchase. Even if you don’t want to sell anything, and you would just like to come out and see the campground and facilities, there’s no cost to attend. This event begins at 10 a.m. and will last until 2 p.m. unless it’s busy and vendors wish to stay longer.

Tri-County Trails has a lot to offer members and guests! There is a pavilion with a full kitchen, trails for riding, a playground

area for setting up obstacles, as well as being close to a KOA (Bear Creek)! There are open areas for parking those ‘larger rigs’ for daily rides or for our weekend functions! We have running water for your animals, and a convenience store within 10 minutes of camp for those last minute items. We are located right off of Interstate 77, not far from the Route 30 interchange for those who are traveling!

For the most updated flyers and schedule of events, visit our website, https://www.tricotrails.com/ or Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/145724365486865/

fragile neck. He’s a teenager now and his adoptive parents are the reason he’s even alive. I, we, our equine community can do more. Our horses, those tutu-wearing, magical, dancing hippos, can and should do more.

Sarah Vas, a second-generation horsewoman, writes about her decades of adventure and mayhem

among several breeds and disciplines, and countless equine educational endeavors both as student and teacher. Sarah owns and operates a continuation of her parents’ original business, Winfield Farm & Forge, Ltd., that which couldn’t currently exist without constant gratitude for Kevin, her very forgiving, ridiculously supportive husband.

Together, they are quietly beginning to explore the Farm’s newest chapters, both in and out of the horse world. They are returning to Sarah’s family roots, this time as breeders of Arabian/ Welsh Sport Ponies for dressage and carriage while husband and wife indulge their pent up creativity producing a variety of rustic décor and iron work.

Looking To Build a Pole Building?

It’s Time to Register for Upcoming NODA Events

March is upon us and spring is right around the corner. There’s mud in our futures, but with the crazy weather we’ve had in northeast Ohio this winter, it’s been a constant mud season since November with the occasional freeze break. But horse friends —green up and warm weather is not far behind. Now it’s time to really start thinking about what you’ll be doing through 2023 and NODA has options.

For our Summer Series Schooling Show Series competitors, Suzanne Sherbundy, our schooling show manager has been hard at it lining up venues, dates, and judges for the series, so go to www.nodarider.org and start planning your summer! All the schooling shows will

be at Chagrin Valley Farms or Rocky River. Both members and nonmembers are welcome to ride in all of our schooling shows and we offer both traditional and western dressage classes. Our Summer Series Championship is open to members only and you must be a member when you earn your qualifying scores. More information at www.nodarider. org schooling shows.

There are two upcoming events that open on March 1 to NODA members only; the Dressage Professional Initiative and The NODA Adult Adventure— Dressage and More.

The first session of the 2023 Dressage Professional Initiative will be instructed by Jennifer Baumert, USDF certified instructor to Fourth Level, USDF Gold medalist, USDF education committee chair, and FEI level rider and coach. The sessions take place on Sunday, April 16 and Monday, April 17 at the beautiful Endeavor Farms/ Art Dressage in Hudson, Ohio. The very affordable fee of $250 a day subsidized by a grant. The DPI is open to all USEF, NODA

member professionals. Find out more and register at https:// www.nodarider.org/events

NODA Adult Adventure—

Dressage and More opens to all NODA member adults on March 1. Activities will take place at Brecksville Stables June 8-11. With plenty of stabling, trails, and indoor and outdoor arena— the facilities are perfect. There will be daily dressage lessons, a working equitation clinic, lunch time dressage Q&A’s, trail rides, give-a-ways, games, and a Sunday funday. All levels are welcome and can enjoy learning in a supportive and relaxed environment. The cost is an affordable $375. Find out more and register at https://www. nodarider.org/events

NODA has an upcoming Scribing 101 Clinic for those who want to learn to scribe and reap the rewards of the judges view from C. Barb Soukup will be instructing at the Bainbridge Library on April 15 from 9:3011:30 a.m. Registration is limited and opens on March 15 at https:// www.nodarider.org/events

USEF professionals, please

note, it’s Member Services Directory update time and we want all our member professionals included. The directory is free advertising that is on our website for a full year and in the May newsletter. Please take time to shoot me an email at mosie-editor@nodarider.org with your business information and a photo. Details on page 23. Riders, if your Pro is too busy, can you help them out with this? Deadline is April 10. More information at www.nodarider. org/membership, Member Services Directory.

On May 27 NODA will be hosting its Dressage Ride-a-Test Clinic with a Twist at Chagrin Valley Farms. Riders are welcome to ride their first test with their ‘trainer in their ear.’ Using a wireless headset system, riders can be coached through a test while being judged. Then the clinician will go over ways to improve with the rider and riders can work on those tips or r ride the test. This event opens on May 5, go to https://www. nodarider.org/events

THE BULLETIN BOARD

Borders

Phoenix Farm Bunk House

Small

(740) 664-3248

Ohio Horseman’s Council, Inc.

Member of American Horse Council ohconline.com

SECRETARY Ranee

740/505-2713 secretary@ohconline.com

TREASURER Jo

330/806-3146 treasurer@ohconline.com

Greetings From Your President

The 2023 Equine Affaire is April 13-16 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio Horseman’s Council (OHC) will have a booth at the Equine Affaire. Please drop by and see us. We will have a large trail map display. You can talk to knowledgeable people about trail

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ASHTABULA

Howdy from the Ashtabula County OHC chapter. After faithfully writing to you for many years, Pearl Ann has passed her pen and I have the privilege of keeping you all up to date with what’s happening in our neck of the woods. Right now, we are knee deep in mud, snow flurries and the cold air hurts your face. While this time of year we don’t have scheduled club rides, some of our adventurous members have still been finding the time to hit the trails together. Despite the weather, everyone always enjoys good conversation and some saddle therapy with fellow friends. We look forward to many more miles in the saddle as this new year is underway. We are all anxious for the upcoming months when the weather is more favorable and the sun returns.

riding in Ohio. You can also join or renew your membership with the Ohio Horseman’s Council. Please volunteer for a twohour segment or more at the OHC booth to serve as an OHC ambassador, to talk with folks about OHC and the trails. A link to Sign Up Genius will be on the

PRESIDENT Eric Estill 513/266-9823 president@ohconline.com

MEMBERSHIP

VICE PRESIDENT Nancy Strayer 740/694-1007 vicepresident@ohconline.com

OHC COUNTY LINES EDITOR Martie Ackerman 713/553-9644 countylineeditor@ohconline.com

OHC website soon, or contact the Equine Affaire Committee: Mary Alice Kuhn, Theresa Burke, Jo Ellen Reikowski.

The Equine Affaire puts on clinics, demonstrations, and a vendors’ exhibit hall. All these events cover a wide range of equine related topics. It’s a great

opportunity to learn more and to get a good deal on tack and supplies.

The Fantasia horse show is scheduled for April 13-16 starting at 7:30 p.m. The show is an inspiration. I recommend that you check it out.

While we wait a little less than patiently, club members have been hard at work. There has been lots of planning for upcoming events as well as brainstorming ideas for improvements that can be made in regards to our local trails. Be on the lookout for official dates for our annual Dice Ride, our 2nd Annual Photo Scavenger Race and our Fun Show Gaming

Buckle Series consisting of three show dates. We hope to have details posted soon as we know everyone’s calendar fills up fast! If you are in our area and ever want to learn more about who we are and what we do, please reach out to us or attend a meeting. We would love to see ya! Our meetings are the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. We’re thankful to have the use of the Pierpont Funeral Home for the meetings. I look forward to writing again and sharing more of our adventures. Until next time, happy riding!

CLARK

Mud, mud, glorious mud, nothing quite like it for cooling the blood...or so the song goes. As for myself it takes up too much of my brain power trying to find solutions. I keep reminding myself that it is only temporary and it will freeze or dry out. In the meantime, it is hard to practice good manure management, and my dog tends to lay in the manure-soaked puddles. I’m sure you can imagine just how it smells! I will end my rant there.

Clark County had a successful day the at the 4-H tack sale at the fairgrounds. Thank you to Anne Demmy, Kailene Wells and Mary Albano for all their hard work. We raffled off two Clark County OHC memberships and the winners were Kim Patterson and

Jane Santamaria. We welcome them to Clark County OHC! There were lots of people stopping by to get club information and maps of Buck Creek State Park. We added a few dollars to our coffers which will help with trail maintenance and other plans for the year. There are lots of additional tack sales in the future so if you are looking for a good deal check them out.

I am branching out this year and becoming a secondary member to a few clubs. At first, I wasn’t sure of the advantage to doing this since I am fairly new to OHC but, I know several people who participate in this practice. First, it’s a great way to meet more horse friends and learn about what other clubs offer. It’s an opportunity to listen to guest speakers, maybe learn a dance step or two and quite often good food is involved. Most important, is the possibility of riding more when you have a list of rides from multiple clubs. Our next meeting will be Wednesday, March 8 at The Plattsburg UCC located at 1715 S. Urbana Lisbon Road, S. Charleston at 6:30 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Come ride with Clark County! ~Jonna Ledyard

CLINTON

Hello fellow horseman! TPlans for this year: Warren County Great Tack Exchange is coming

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up in March, and Road to the Horse is also in March. I can’t wait to watch some of the best colt starting! In May we are going to Houston Woods for camping, then the club is camping Memorial Weekend at CCSP.

Take a kid riding and see the future! Have a great safe month!

COLUMBIANA

Hello everyone, I hope all are doing well during these winter months. I know that we have had some cold snaps, but in reality this has been a very mild winter and I am loving it. Since I missed last month’s article, I need to announce our new officers as follows: President Thomas Moore, Vice President Rick Haldiman, Secretary Becky Todd and Treasurer Ted Todd. Mr. and Mrs. Todd held these same positions last year and did a great job. Mr. Haldiman was our president last year and he also did a great job in that position. Mr. Moore who has done a lot of work for the OHC organization and for Beaver Creek is now getting his feet wet as an officer. I would like to comment on a few things pertaining to Beaver Creek this year. Unfortunately, we did not get a grant for a new wash rack for the horses this year. Not to say its off the table we are going to try again for the grant and hopefully next year the wash rack will become a reality. Our OHC member Casey Moore is organizing a Summer Bash at Beaver Creek, so put July 22 on your calendar and join us for this fun event. Other planned events will be a poker run with a potluck dinner along with a gun raffle. Tickets for the gun raffle will be available the first of April. Note: If you win you don’t have to take the gun you can opt to take the cash.

Some of the scheduled rides we have decided to do this year: July 28-30, 2 Mile Run in Venango County, Pennsylvania. We had a great ride last year so we’re going again. The trails were wonderful and well groomed. On Aug. 11-13 we will be at Harrison State Park. This will be my first time riding there, and I’m looking forward to it. Also, on Sept. 8-10 we will be riding at West Branch State Park. I have ridden West Branch many times and it’s really good riding! That’s about it for now folks!

Have a safe and health rest of your winter.

CRAWFORD

It is hard to believe we will be reading March already. Crawford County had a great 2022. We did not do a lot of day riding due to health issues for some members, but camping at Mohican in August was a lot of fun and fellowship. The only other campout was at Oak Openings in May before the health issues started. We rode 52 miles at Mt. Gilead State Park. It is about 20 minutes from Galion and we could get two hours of riding going over the trails. The trails are well kept and some hills and flat areas. It is a great place for a workout and back home again. Everyone is ready to start riding again this year. Be safe and look for a great 2023 of horseback riding and driving. Be kind to your horses.

CUYAHOGA

It may not be time to plant flowers yet but the park systems are gearing up for another busy riding season. Our Cleveland Metroparks here in northeastern Ohio are already hard at work building new mounting platforms for trailheads in North Chagrin, South Chagrin, Brecksville and we hope Hinckley Reservations. These will help riders of all ages and abilities mount their tall steeds with ease and safety. We have all seen riders climb on picnic tables or rocks only to have their horses continually swing away as they reach to put a foot in the stirrup. Although this is also a training issue, these platforms will be of great help. They will be about 22 inches high and about three feet wide and six feet long. There will be steps at either end to make it easy to get up there and a rail at the back so no one falls off. A fence on the other side keeps your horse from swinging away and it is a snap to lead them in, climb on quickly and safely. You will be able to use these to dismount as well. This will be great for those who have horses that are too tall, jeans that are too tight, legs that are too short or joints that are too stiff. Let’s face it, we who have been riding a long time all have a limp or two or a current injury we’re nursing. For all you young

ones, well you may just swing up from the ground if you like, but remember it is much better for your horses back to mount from a block and it will make the rest of us feel better.

I hope you have many wonderful rides this year. We are so lucky to have the miles of trails we have here in Ohio and especially the Cleveland Metroparks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Geauga Parks, Lorain, Lake County Metroparks and so many more. Join an OHC chapter and join a ride or the many other activities planned. You don’t even have to have a horse.

See www.ohconline.com or cuyahogacountyohc.com for more information. We are on Facebook also. Now Saddle Up,

DEFIANCE

We would like to congratulate Susanne and Tianna Cooper on their accomplishments in Tampa Florida in the Florida Gold Coast Circuit. They also enjoyed some fun in the sun.

While some members were enjoying warm temperatures, some members got a chilly ride in on New Year’s Day. A great way to start off the new year. We ended our year on a wonderful note, with our annual Christmas

party and had several new members join. We are so excited to see our chapter grow.

I would like to congratulate top milage winner Linda Mabis with 515 miles and two youth members for a great report of saddle hours turned in; Serenity Steele with 190 hours, and Chloe Steele with 250 hours.

Happy trails everyone,

DELAWARE

Greetings from your friends in the Delaware chapter and happy March! Spring is just around the corner and at long last, we finally get to ‘spring forward’ with our clocks to daylight savings time and enjoy longer daylight!

Our chapter held its first meeting of the year in February. Unfortunately, the featured presentation of the evening had to be postponed as our speaker, was a little under the weather. We look forward to hearing this presentation entitled, ‘Understanding how road performance impacts trailer hauling’ at another meeting later this summer, perhaps in June.

Our February business meeting focused on creating our 2023 calendar of events and activities. Thus far, we have organized a chapter outing to Equine Affaire’s Fantasia, scheduled for Thursday April 13. Other activities in the planning stage include a trail ride and play-date with your horse at Black Swan Farm, an overnight ‘mini-vacation’ trail ride and campout, our famous ‘Autumn at Alum’ trail ride and campout, and the Delaware All-Horse Parade just to name a few. In addition, we have several guest speakers lined up, each to share their knowledge and expertise on a variety of topics, ranging from this month’s barn fire prevention and safety, to choosing the proper fencing for horses, manure management on your farm, and an introduction to the tradition and sport of American Fox Hunting. We are also planning a July get-

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together at Henmick Farm and Brewery in Kilbourne. During the meeting, several members voiced enthusiasm for a road trip to visit The Wilds, Cumberland, Ohio, one of the largest and most innovative wildlife conservation centers in the world!

As was mentioned previously, our chapter looks forward to welcoming, Mr. Jim Strayton, battalion chief and paramedic with Marysville fire department sharing his knowledge and expertise on barn fire prevention and safety on Friday, March 3. Our business meeting will follow Jim’s presentation and features our annual trail mileage and saddle hours award ceremony. Several Delaware members have earned a milestone achievement patch this year! I will be sure to highlight these individuals in next month’s column.

The State OHC general membership meeting will take place on Saturday, March 11 at the Elks Lodge in Newark, Ohio. All OHC members are encouraged to attend this informative and entertaining seminar. Attendance is free of charge. Lunch is available for a nominal fee by reservation through our hosts from the Southeast Region. Look for more details including the meeting agenda to be posted on the state OHC website, ohconline.com and on our Delaware Facebook page. I hope to see many Delaware members at the meeting!

Member Pat O’Connell has graciously agreed to serve as our chapter day ride coordinator. If you know of a specific riding location that you would like to experience, please let Pat know. In addition, members are encouraged to post invitations to ‘meetup and ride’ even if it happens to be one or two days’ notice.

Speaking of group rides, please mark your calendar to attend our Central Region ride slated for the weekend of July 14-16 at AEP Fallon Park. More details to come!

Our mighty crew of trail

maintenance volunteers continue their efforts on our Alum Creek bridle trails. The crew, led by Mary Chmielewski, worked throughout the winter months, weather permitting, keeping the trails cleared of major brush and debris. When the weather warms up and ground conditions are suitable, work will begin on our first major project of 2023, namely the replacement of Paul’s Path boardwalk/platform located along Winterhawk West trail. There will be our traditional spring campground clean-up day scheduled soon, stay tuned! Even if you can only spare a day or two, here or there, your volunteerism will be most appreciated.

Delaware Chapter has lots of fun and exciting events planned for 2023 so why don’t you join us? We look forward to meeting you at our next chapter meeting, scheduled for April 7 where we will welcome, Lisa Kiley, with Cashmans Horse Equipment, speaking on the subject of fencing options (pros/ cons), manure management, and choices of feeders and gates.

Our monthly meetings are held at the Kilbourne United Methodist Church on SR 521, Delaware, Ohio, beginning at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be available. Guests, including our neighboring OHC chapter friends are always welcome. Come join our fun! Enjoy a Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Erin go Bragh!

ERIE

Greetings from Erie County! March is here! I hope it comes in like a lion and out like a lamb

because spring officially starts the 20th!

Our club will meet up on Mason Road March 19 at 1 p.m. for our spring ride.

Chapter meetings are held the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. We currently meet at the Coupling, 11618 OH 13, Milan Ohio. Once the weather warmsup we will move to Edison Woods so we can ride before the meeting.

Our Vision Committee met at Jim’s Pizza Box on Jan. 26. We had a great turnout. Many ideas were passed around and dates were set. We set up a Poker Ride Committee that met Feb. 23.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Life is better on the trail!

FAIRFIELD

Fairfield County OHC had their first meeting of the new year on Jan. 8. Members discussed which work projects would be a priority for 2023. All proposed projects are at Hocking, and they include: replacing a tie rail on the green trail near Rock House, replacing several picnic tables and putting up signs to the harder to find points of interest (i.e., Crystal Falls, White Falls and Airplane Rock.)

Longtime member Anita Hoon is working on a memo of understanding with Slate Run Metro Park to keep the current horse trails open. These trails are dear to her heart, since she was one of the original chapter members credited with getting

the trails open to riders. It was the first time horse trails were approved in a metro park and has paved the way for other metro parks to follow suit.

Fairfield chapter was a 2022 Fairfield County Junior Fair award sponsor and received some special cards from the trophy recipients that benefitted from the donations. It was nice to see the smiling faces in the pictures that were included with the thank you cards.

Efforts are underway to finalize the 2023 ride schedule. It will be posted on the Fairfield County Chapter, Ohio Horseman’s Council Facebook group page when it is complete.

Until next time, wishing you easier chores and warmer weather.

FULTON

January was rather quiet in this part of the state. The weather was prohibitive; it prohibited me from leaving my house except when necessary. I spent a lot of time giving horses extra hay to keep warm which is complicated when the horses have dust allergies. The best remedy I’ve found is to wet down their hay and that is a challenge in cold weather! It has to be done in small batches so it doesn’t freeze. I guess it’s a good thing that I’m retired with lots of free time.

Did you see the International Rodeo Finals in January? We had members of two families in our chapter who traveled to Guthrie, Okla., to attend the event. Debbie and Kenny made the trip to watch their granddaughter, Cassie Vaughan win third in the breakaway roping after placing in three rounds. And Nick DeLeon, stepson of Ernie Brown (mom Tina Brown) went and competed in team roping placing 4th in round four and 6th overall.

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We were able to watch from the comfort of our home thanks to live streaming. It is much more engaging to watch when you have a connection to some of the competitors. It was interesting to see that many of the rodeo cowgirls are school teachers.

Our first Winter Blues brunch was at Das Essenhaus in Wauseon in January. It was well attended and the buffet was good as always. Thankfully, the weather wasn’t too bad although there were some icy roads on the way there. And a train was blocking a couple of the roads we tried to go down. We did see the train sitting next to Pettisville Meats when we went around it and it was still there when we went home. I heard that the conductor stopped in Pettisville for breakfast; who knows?

In February, we expected to have a second brunch, place and time undetermined at the time of this report. And, keeping with the indoor theme, we had a riding event planned in a heated indoor arena.

With March right around the corner, it’s time think about the Defiance County Tack and More sale, the Michigan Horse Expo and the Bowling Green horseman’s flea market. Michelle Miller has the opportunity to attend Road to the Horse thanks to OHC; she won the package in the 50th anniversary bingo game. That game was fun; it prompted us to do things we never would have thought of. It has also helped members start to plan their camping trips; chapter members won camping vouchers to Cowboy Larry’s, Pleasant Hill Lake Park, ODNR parks and Elkin’s Creek.

For those who are not in the northwest region, you may not know that our very own Cheryl Zielinski was appointed to be the Mentor in our region. I’m not sure what that means but it sounds important and we’re sure she’ll do a good job! I looked ‘mentor’ up on the OHC state website and it said, “The Regional Mentor shall assist the Regional Representative in his or her region with oversight of daily issues pertaining to the county chapters in their region” and “Perform such other functions as may be assigned by the President or the Executive Cabinet.” Sounds like she’s going to be busy!

Lastly, keep an eye out for ticks! Michelle found one engorged on her horse in January!

Our chapter meetings continue to be on the first Monday of the month at the Bunker Bar and Grill in Holland. Everyone is welcome. If you’d like to know what we’re up to in real time or want more information on our activities, check our website www.fcohc. com, our Facebook page Fulton County Ohio Horseman’s Council or join our Facebook group Fulton County OHC.

We hope you all are well and safe and we look forward to seeing you this year!

Hi all! I wanted to update everyone on a couple of things from 2022 that did not get posted in the January issue. Our chapter enjoyed a spooky and fun costume ride at Holbrook Hollows on Oct. 30. The costumes were so very creative and a big thank you to Cindy Orben for hosting an evening of enjoyment and delicious food.

The voting is done and the elections are complete for 2023. Welcome our chapter members who have stepped up to help this year and we appreciate all the hard work of those who have served in 2022. Especially, Brandy Arotin, Christina Monaghan and Lisa Green.

Look out for the calendar of events that will be coming soon. We are looking forward to a bright and exciting year ahead. Plan on riding some new trails and exploring new ways of connecting with your horse. Meet new friends and stay connected to the relationships that we carry through our lives. Cannot wait to

see the adventures that we will tackle together. Life is a journey and you hold the map.

GREENE

I hope everyone is staying warm and dry. As usual this time of year, Mother Nature doesn’t seem to know what she wants.

At our January meeting, we decided to try having a potluck during the meeting. We had done this in years past, and thought it would be fun to try again. If you plan on coming and don’t know what to bring, I’m going to attempt to make a post on the Facebook group for anyone who has that option. If you aren’t on there, feel free to contact one of your officers to see if they are aware of it. We plan to have one person volunteer each month for the main course, and then everyone else can bring sides and desserts.

Speaking of potlucks, our state ride plans for June 9-11 are coming along nicely. Remember if you are camping, you’ll need to make reservations via reserveohio.com. Karaoke Bob is booked again for this year, and Nancy has been busy at the sales for door prizes. So have I, though she has me beat; she finds some of the coolest stuff. Jerry is again making a gorgeous saddle stand. I think he said this year’s will be made of hickory. By the time you read this,

you’ll either have your calendar for the year or it will be arriving shortly. That’s on our agenda for the February meeting so it just depends on when the newsletter gets sent out. But a couple of things to remember are the Great Tack Exchange March 19 (11 a.m.- 4 p.m. at the Greene County Fairgrounds), and Green Up Day at Caesar Creek April 22 (9 a.m. at horse camp.)

Several of our members are always busy on the trails at Caesar Ford. Sometimes they go out on weekdays, sometimes on weekends. If you would like to be in the loop, in case you can make it, Dave has a text chain where he sends out a message when something is planned. There’s no commitment needed, but if you’re interested, let him know. His number is 937/409-6973. The bulk of the work is done by Dave, Jerry, Devin and Jeannie, anyone else who is able to help would be much appreciated. Happy spring (almost!)

GUERNSEY

At Salt Fork State Park, our first week of trail work was on the Red Trail. Last issue I noted the trail was in bad shape. That was an understatement. Four of us put in 39 man hours and 60 equipment hours to clear the eight miles of trail. The following week, we had planned on tackling the White Trail A Loop. However, it rained hard, all day the day before, on already wet ground, so I cancelled that workday.

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By now you know, I own Dee Dee, and it blows my mind that I rode Garden of the Gods with her four years earlier! That’s us in the first picture. In the second picture, Linda is on Angel at Balancing Rock.

The ride was not uneventful! One day we rode eight miles to a canyon. As we were riding down into it, Erin told us to hold up. Something was wrong with Dee Dee’s left rear hoof. Somewhere along the trail, her shoe must have gotten caught on a rock! It was bent to a 45-degree angle, after the last rear nail. We were almost to the bottom, so we continued on.

With only a hoof pick, for close to an hour, I tried to get the shoe off. Then, Erin found a rock shaped like a hammer, and I continued to work. At about that point, we heard voices coming down the trail toward us. I yelled to them, “Are you coming down here?” “Not if you don’t want us too,” someone called back! I replied, “Yes, we need your help! My horse has almost lost a shoe and we can’t get it off!”

business that we discussed was 2022 volunteer hours for trail maintenance and the events held at Van Buren State Park. A few of the stats reported to the state by Barb O. were a total of 1406 trail work hours. The volunteer hours for the events at Van Buren came to 1089. Thank you to all the volunteers for helping to make Van Buren the best little state park in Northwest Ohio.

Want to be in the know with what’s going on with the trails and horse camp at Salt Fork? Then follow us on our Facebook site at Salt Fork Bridle Trails. That’s where we list the upcoming workdays and issue a weekly report of what’s been done. If you would like to help, follow us there and simply show up. We do need your help! All the details are listed on our Facebook page.

Have you ever been to Garden of the Gods in Illinois? If not, you need to put the ride on your bucket list! Guernsey OHC is going there this September and we will be staying at High Knob Horse Camp. My sister Linda rode there in October of 2018. I learned about Garden of the Gods from a dear horse friend, Ruth Reynolds from Tennessee. From the way she described it, I knew I had to ride there someday. It was everything Ruth described and then some! I told the club about it and they ended up going with us. My horse Ben, came up lame two weeks before the ride. In desperation I called my friend Erin, and said, “I need a horse!” She had just sold her horse, Dee Dee, to her next-door neighbor. She said she would see if I could borrow her. He said, “Yes.”

In the last picture you see us working on the shoe. In their saddle bags, one guy had a small straight-bladed screw driver, another guy had a small pair of slide-locking pliers. We finally got the shoe off and I rode back to camp. Luckily, I had taken my farrier stuff on the trip and put the shoe back on once we were back!

Life is better with a horse! See you on the trail! Remember, I’ll be riding the tall, black, Tennessee Walker, Dee Dee!

HANCOCK

Hello equine friends! I hope everyone enjoyed the spring-like weather that we experienced in February! It made you itchin’ to go trail riding. I would bet some of you took advantage of the unseasonably warm temperatures and have headed out on the trail with your equine buddy. One of our members hit the trail on her long-eared partner in the Sunshine State!

Our chapter meeting in January consisted of a celebration with a little business on the side. Five of our members had a birthday in January, Rose, Joan, Nicole, Rachael, and Ed. What better way to conduct a meeting than to wish our members a Happy Birthday? It was a good excuse to serve cake too! The little

Our February meeting was held at the University of Findlay’s western equestrian farm. It just so happened that the Great Lakes Appaloosa Horse Club’s annual swap meet was going on the same day as our meeting. Imagine that! Our meeting consisted of shopping, of course, more birthday cake, and a little business on the side. Our members who celebrated their birthdays in February are Brittany, Jane, and Linda.

If anyone in the local Findlay and surrounding area would like to join us at one of our meetings or at Van Buren State Park for trail riding, don’t hesitate to message us on our Facebook page, Hancock County OHC.

All the best in 2023 and Happy Trails!

HOCKING

Not a lot to report at this time. A couple of our members recently acquired new ponies. For Christmas, as a gift from her husband, Donna received an 8-month-old filly. Brenda, has been searching for a younger mount. She purchased a 6-yearold gelding. She is looking forward to seeing how he will work out this spring. I put a third photo out there of Raven Rau and her family riding horses at the beach. Just because I thought that was really cool!

Our club is looking forward to

planning the event calendar for 2023. If you would like to be part of this process, we would love to see you at a meeting! Our club is very family friendly and meet at the Olde Dutch Restaurant and Banquet Haus (Oak Room), in Logan, the third Sunday of every month at 7 p.m. Come in earlier for dinner and relaxed conversation prior to the meeting. Watch our Facebook page for more information about our club and upcoming events!

HOLMES

Well, it is 10 degrees out, but writing the March 2023 article makes it feel a little more Spring like. It’s been a freeze and thaw winter so far. Bruce and I are looking forward to warmer weather and more riding. Our clubs next meeting will be held March 6. Planning has begun for our Spring Fling banquet in April. President and Trail Mile Coordinator Vickie Zook reported total club miles as 10,239 for 2022. This is especially impressive since

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Mohican and Malabar were closed for some time during 2022. Thank you to all who kept track of their miles and volunteer hours. These figures help show how our members use our trails and the dedication they have to do the regular maintenance on them. This year, Ohio Horseman’s Council and the ODNR gave many hours of work to make our trails useable after a devastating tornado and will continue to do so next year. We are very grateful for everyone’s contributions.

Several members will be attending the State Meeting at the Elks Club in Newark, Ohio, on March 11. Members are also planning on attending the first work weekend at Mohican, organized by Wayne County on March 24-27. There is a Cowboys for Jesus camp April 21-23.

Vickie and I attended the MidWinter meeting at Salt Fork Lodge on Jan. 15. It was my first time at one of the State meetings. It was very well organized and speakers were well prepared and informative. Officers will be getting back to their members with reports, but one of the biggest take-aways I brought home was from our Ohio Trail Partnership (OTP) advocate Mr. Sean Logan. He is a past Director of ODNR and past member of the General Assembly. OTP represents the interests of hikers, bikers, rails to trails, waterway users, and horseback riders on our Ohio trails to our lawmakers. He recommends all of us know who our representatives are and what their phone and email contacts are. We can be engaged in the decisions made that affect our Ohio trails.

January has been a little dull horse activity wise for us, but we did attend the Ashland Paint and Plain Saddle Club Swap meet. Probably bought as much as I

sold but it was fun and we saw many friends there. Swaps are a winter activity that does not involve mud or being cold. My side benefit is a cleaner garage. By the time Equine Affaire gets here in April, it will truly be spring. Take care and be ready when it gets here.

KNOX

As you all know the weather in Ohio is most unpredictable. I saddled up, cold but the sun was shining, rode out about one mile and it clouded up, sleet was hitting me and the horse which he didn’t like, cars passed and due to wet pavement, made here to before unheard of hissing noises the horse was unfamiliar with. This particular horse did not spook in place! Three times. Best advice is avoid riding alone when possible as your horse, unlike a motorcycle or such, has a mind of its own, and can react in different ways. They are, by Mother Nature’s standards, a prey animal and flight is there first option. And, you might want to consider keeping that Cell Phone on your person.

Ground Hogs’ Day is a day of celebration in my mind as it heralds the coming of spring. So, in celebration of Ground Hogs day, a group of us got together for lunch and later watched the movie Eighty for Brady. Timing, Brady announced two days before he is permanently retiring. OHC is a great way to meet new friends of like interests, and thus most of my current friends I met as a member of OHC. How about you? When you get old, six weeks is a very short time.

It is now March and our annual tack auction held in the Martinsburg Activity center on Feb. 25 is now history. We’ll add comments next month as

other chapters may be interested in how successful a tack auction can be.

We held a planning session towards developing a 2023 ride schedule Feb. 20 at Phil Rauch’s home. By now, our members have been submitted a copy by our diligent secretary Kathy Shoemaker. Due to unforeseen circumstances, our schedule can and does change from time to time and our members will be notified of any and all changes as they occur.

Our first scheduled ride is March 25. Meet at the church parking lot at the end of East Street in Danville. Be in the saddle ready to ride by 11 a.m. This is a paved rails to trails ride so it would be best if your horse was shod. Mohican Valley Trail is 4.8 miles long, leading to the Bridge of Dreams, to a tunnel under Ohio Highway 62 and on to the Holmes County Trail which ventures North another 23.1 miles. We may elect to complete a loop utilizing some back roads that have little or no traffic. We also may elect to link up at a local food service facility after the ride and enjoy lunch together so bring money.

Equine Affaire is April 13-16 at the Ohio State Fairgrounds, Columbus, Ohio. OHC will have a booth and volunteers are always needed.

As a side note, our local Knox County Horse Park Inc. is having an open house April 22. Not sure what is planned at this time.

We do ride often in the winter and I have included a picture to show that. We meet the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. currently at Donato’s Pizza on South Main in Mt. Vernon. Watch our Facebook site for any update. Come on over to Knox County where the gates are wide open, the grass is greener, the horses leaner, as we do ride them, and everyone is welcome.

LAKE

It’s Groundhog’s Day! “We’re on the downside of winter!”, says Barbara Jurgens, our new president. That’s something to celebrate. Rickie B., however, began the new year with a January first trail ride through South Chagrin with her stablemates.

Barbara J. and Rosemary M. attended the state OHC meeting Jan. 15 at Salt Fork. There were training seminars on various parts of the Ohio Council. Barb J. entertained many more ideas for our own chapter. Donna K., our vice president, took an educational class titled ‘Adults Connecting with Horses’ at Lake Farm Park in January. The students were shown how to groom a horse. Next, they were shown how to tack-up a horse, both western and English style. They then rode two horses; Dude a Haflinger, and Theadric, a black Dutch Warmblood. The instructors led the horses as they were ridden.

After riding, the riders learned to harness and drive. Theadric was hitched to a cart and the teachers sat beside the students as they drove. The enthusiasm in the students’ voices and on their faces showed just how much they enjoyed the class.

Our next Lake chapter meeting is April 12, at 6:30 p.m. held at Dale’s Auto in the front reception room. Awards for 2022 will be presented. Members may bring cookies or small snacks if they wish. We will be discussing

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our chapter’s schedule. All are welcome.

Keep on with your riding adventures.

LICKING

Hello all you horse people out there! I’m really excited to tell you that Licking County chapter has an outstanding year planned. Our last meeting was very well attended, we even ran out of chairs, believe it or not. It started out with two representatives from Heart of a Warrior Farms giving us information about their program. They operate an equine therapy program and their goal is to have some of their students compete in the Special Olympics in the equine field. I am really proud to announce that our annual fun show will also include a class for our friends of Heart of a Warrior Farm. I cannot wait to see all the excited faces at our show. I’ll post a date as soon as it is locked in. Our president Charlene Santee also let us know that after a couple years break due to Covid, we will be able to replenish our tack stacks once again at the Licking Valley Raiders tack auction on March 18. That is always a welcome respite from the winter blues and since it benefits their 4H program I hope you all will come and see what they have to offer. Charlene also mentioned that to get ready for the riding season we are going to schedule a trail maintenance day at Dillon Lake bridle trails the beginning of March. We do need your help, please come on out and help us get ready for the season. Our treasurer Mrs. Sandy Belt read the financial report and did an outstanding job keeping us informed about our finances. Trail miles of 2022 were reported by Deb Sheka. We had a little more participation

of turning in miles than last year. The $50 gift card that you could have won for just turning in your miles was won this year by me, Sigrid Batten. I thought I misheard but it really was I that she announced as the winner. Thank you. Our top 10 trail riders were Leah Palestrant 681, Chrissy Lloyd 433, Sigrid Batten 408, Mitzi Gerber 371, Kirk Lloyd 339, Liz Shiplet 260, Nancy Daugherty 253, Deena McPherson 236, Bill and Linda Bering 214 each. Thank you for turning in your miles! It helps us keep our bridle trails open! This concludes our newsletter for this month but next time I’ll be able to report more concrete plans and dates to you since our committee meetings will have taken place and I will have more information then. Hope to see you out enjoying your horses!

MADISON

Writing this in February for publication in March, we are in the midst of mud season with the hope that readers will find dryer pastures and turn-outs as they read. The groundhog saw his shadow, but what will the

six more weeks of winter really bring?

This is the season for rest and planning for those who have outdoor pursuits that involve animals and anything other than pavement or gravel. Madison County OHC has planned more programs for the year, including a trailering clinic, map-reading and review of technology-based location apps, as well as sharing with all where we all have ridden with details of pros and cons. We look forward to sharing with each other the skills and knowledge that we cumulatively have. With lots of years comes lots of knowledge, and boy are we smart!

We are planning a work day at Deer Creek horse camp on March 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (bring a sack lunch) with the goal of cutting and dragging brush to make each campsite bigger and cleaner. If there are any interested Boy Scouts or other organizations who need volunteer hours, please contact Jean Kritner at 614/306-2362 for more information. All help is appreciated. We will also resume our weekly work days at Deer Creek, which will be on our Facebook page—as always, weather dependent. Come join us to maintain trails and laugh.

For a winter weather get away, several members traveled to Patagonia, Ariz., to ride for a week at Circle Z Ranch, which is a lovely place with great horses, scenery, accommodations, and food. This is an annual trip to enjoy some warm weather and great riding. Other members were able to get out and ride in our Ohio snow, while others are continuing to work horses as they are able in outdoor arenas or indoor facilities to keep our equine friends tuned up while we anticipate warmer weather.

The January officers meeting at Salt Fork State Park was the destination of several members who learned about mud mitigation and trail maintenance and listened to sessions for new officers on roles and responsibilities. They hiked to Hosak’s Cave and also toured the horseman’s camp, noting the many improvements over the last several years. Many thanks to the chapters working to keep this park in tip top shape! It has been a difficult several years for trail clearing, but it’s looking great. They did report that although they looked for Big Foot, there were no sightings at this time.

We look forward to gearing up in the spring for our annual monthly Gymkhana series at the Madison County Fairgrounds on Saturdays, May through October (except July.) This is for all abilities and ages! We have classes for youth through 40+, and award prizes and buckles for high points for the season. We are a fun-based Gymkhana, and welcome beginners who are just getting their horse used to arena work and crowds as well as seasoned riders who offer some pretty stiff competition in speed and control events. Please see our schedule on our Facebook page and on the Madison County Gymkhana page at OHC online.

MEDINA

A Medina/Summit chapter banquet at the Richfield Masonic Hall helped us kick off 2023. We were warm and well-fed Jan. 21 and topped off the evening with awards, prizes and another beautiful cake compliments of Debbie Donner.

Time to dust off those saddles and squeeze into last year’s riding pants! We are working on our ride schedule (to be published soon) and getting dates locked down. You really should join us! Our ride leaders are experienced and if you haven’t had much chance to get out, these weekend or weekday rides are perfect. We ride out at 10 a.m., so be sure to let the leader know that you are coming. First up is Hinckley Reservation with Debbie Donner (216/390-0024) on March 25. April’s ride is again at Hinckley with Maureen Mizerak (440/4295810.) Be sure to call first to verify date, time, and location.

In the coming months we will be at Brecksville Reservation, Mohican for a fun Memorial Day weekend, and another weekend at Pleasant Hill, June 16-18. Get the cobwebs out of that trailer and come ride with us! Stay tuned for another combined chapter event at the Chagrin Valley Polo Fields in September!

Trail work sessions begin again in March, weather permitting. The CVNP staff will be helping us stage our work so everything goes pretty quick. Our first session will be March 18. Contact Raydeen Ryden (reysden@att. net or 334/663-7361) or Greg Monsanty (330/352-5737 or blackhorsebridge@aol.com) for details.

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Thanking my lucky stars down in the valley.

One brave rider and horse took on the brand-new year by upholding a long-held tradition of riding the AEP Equine Trails on Jan. 1. Terry Woltz was the dedicated equestrian and by all accounts had a good ride with cooperating weather with temperatures reaching around 50 degrees. Hats off to Terry and here’s hoping more will be able to join her next year.

Our chapter will be conducting a tack auction on March 25 at the Wilkesville Community Center. The auction will begin at noon with items provided by local vender, Jerry Henderson. Lunch style concessions will be for sale throughout the auction or until we run out. Terms for purchase of auction items are cash or a check with current identification, e.g., photo driver’s license. All sales are final. Any questions about the sale please contact one of our Meigs Chapter officers whose names, phone and email can be found on the State OHC website. This event has always brought a good crowd and we are expecting the same again this year. Anyone interested in riding the trails at our camp please let us know so we can make arrangements for your arrival. Again, just consult one of our chapter officers for information. We are gearing up for early spring work days so that the trails and facilities are in good shape for riders and their horses. Maps of our trails are available upon request and a schedule of our club’s activities can be found on our Facebook page (Ohio Horseman’s Council Meigs Chapter.) We use Facebook as a club communication tool but if you have a specific question, you can PM one of our officers using Facebook as well as email an officer.

We would love to share our beautiful trails with others from around the state and country. Meigs currently has 84 members for 2023 and we are continually seeking new members throughout our area. If you love horses like we do, then you will enjoy the comradery and equine story sharing of our club.

Our meetings are the third Tuesday of each month at Fox Pizza in Pomeroy.

MORROW

Greetings from Morrow County OHC chapter where the rollercoaster weather has made horse care a challenge with a snow/mud/cold changing menu. Adequate 24/7 hay access/ shelter/ice free water has all of my herd at a 6 or 7+ scale rating (range 1-9.) Hopefully that is true for all horses being cared for by readers of my rambling. Having skilled/trained horse care help is still critically essential for me as I continue to recovery from the early November broken hip requiring unscheduled socket replacement. Recovery has progressed from a three-week nursing home confinement to now being at home with almost independent living except putting on footwear. The recent sale of seven horses from the herd of 11 has made it easier for my 31-year-old assistant who has been helping since he was 15.

Living alone after my wife’s death on Jan. 4, 2021 following 60 years of marriage has the two daughters arranging for me to move closer to family in Iowa before 2024. Ohio equine activity will become pleasant memories after a 22-year membership in OHC being associated with some very dedicated members who follow the OHC motto 100 percent. The only Morrow chapter member with longer OHC association is Suzanne Allen who last rode in 2016, while I did ride earlier in 2022 but this 83-yearold ‘wreck’ may now ‘drift off into the sunset’ like Alan Ladd did in the movie Shane.

Several members did some indoor arena riding sessions at member Byron Edgecomb’s facility. Floyd actually did a ride at Mohican since the start of 2023 although most members have not reported any outside trail activity. Some members did a local day ride as of this early February composition. Hopefully spring will arrive early with some good riding days here in Ohio, although ‘greener pastures’ in Iowa will soon be my location.

Members who can navigate to the barn may enjoy the benefits of equine therapy (similar to the broken hip which canine therapy provided to me by the Boston and miniature Dachshund lap dogs and the feline therapy from two house cats) without riding, via grooming and feeding plus whispering horse/ human conversations like Dr. Dolittle. The smell/touch/sounds associated with such therapeutic activities can be a real spirit lifter despite not being able to ride. It allows some of us senior citizens to visualize the dramatic vision of Ghost Riders in the Sky as sung by Frankie Lane.

This report will end with the usual sign-off for what will most likely be the last ever for me. I trust the 2023 season will allow many OHC members to get Back in The Saddle Again, which was a phrase from Gene’s theme song. So, keep your chin up in 2023 and strive to provide the best care possible for your horses who will provide you the opportunity to enjoy some great riding. I wish Happy Trails to You as Roy and Dale sang for their theme song. Also stay safe in the saddle/on your horse if you do have an opportunity to ride, and “good-bye” to the many great OHC supporters.

~Gerald

PERRY

Love was in the air—or something was when the club hosted its annual after holiday party the first weekend of February. Since we didn’t get the date scheduled for January, everyone decided it would be fun to make it more of a Valentine’s Day theme. I loved the change. We still had wonderful food catered by one of the best barbecue places around and there were many fantastic gifts and games.

Thanks to the party committee we had two very entertaining games that brought the house down and all participants came away as prize winners. Worth every red cent for the gifts and laughs! We even had a cute photo booth set up to those who wanted to avail themselves of the opportunity. I’ve included photos of Don and Vicki Wagner as well as one of the game shenanigans. We had a short meeting prior to dinner and discussed some schedule changes. The ride schedule will be made available this month. While we’re still working on special events for some of the rides, I think everyone will be pleased with the destinations we picked. It looks like we will be returning to Burr Oak for our annual Soup Ride in October but with a slightly different agenda than the normal auction we’ve been having. Stay tuned. Hopefully by that time the new trails will be in place.

Trail mileage participants were announced. I actually had the most trail miles in the club. We are awarding the top trail mile rider with a Tractor Supply gift card and are putting everyone’s name in a lottery for those who turned in miles and they, too, will receive a TSC gift card. We’re trying out another new venue for our chapter meetings which are still held the second

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Tuesday of each month. The current plan is that meetings will be held at the Pizza Place in New Lex. Though Los Mariachis had great food, the music was too loud and it didn’t work well for the meeting.

Many folks already have plans for out of state rides and vacations this year. Winter is pretty much over, at least in our hearts. Can’t wait to make more memories with great friends this year. Happy Trails!

SANDUSKY

Has March come in like a lion or lamb? Either way, we hope that you have been able to take advantage of the good weather days to squeeze in some ride time with your four-legged and twolegged friends! We had a group of 10 who registered for our Fit to Ride program, raising $200 for our club! We learned about moving waste from our waist, making health our hobby and reducing our inflammation. We made and enjoyed some healthy snacks, too! Did you know that there are 257 different names for sugar? We looked for that pesky little ingredient as we practiced reading different food labels. What is TBHQ and why is it in your food anyway? We learned to measure our natural waistline (one inch above our belly button) and that measurement should be less than 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men. Now, how about the weight of your horse? I recently found this handy crude measurement tip: Find the length of your horse’s heart girth (measure your horse around it’s barrel at the widest part) and then find your horse’s body length from the point of the shoulder to the point of the buttocks. Now, plug the numbers into this formula: girth x girth x body length divided by 330 = approximate weight of your horse. For example: If your horse’s girth is 70 inches and its body length is 68 inches, your

formula would look like this: (70x70x68) divided by 330 = 1,009 pounds. Keep in mind that your horse can comfortably carry 20 percent of its body weight. So, if your horse weighs 1,000 pounds, it can carry 200 pounds. Remember, that 200 pounds includes the weight of your saddle. Use these last few weeks of winter to get fit to ride! Your horse will love you for it. To find out how to bring a Fit to Ride FUNdraiser to your chapter contact Donna at 419/340-2851 or email her at: healthcoach@ donnamchaffie.com.

In Stark County our Park District has a wonderful variety of equine trails that we can enjoy for day rides. To help promote the usage of the trails, one of our members, Barbara Harding created a ‘Get Out and Ride’ program for members to keep track of their mileage and show the Park District how often they are used. The top three winners for 2022 were: First place Lisa Schell, second place Greg Monstanty and third place Kathy Sailer. Barbara asked them to write a little something of their experience.

Lisa Schell and Rocket are the top riders of our program for the third year! She loves riding Stark Parks particularly Waynesburg and Whitacre Greer and is thankful for the wellgroomed trails and the fact that she boards her horse at a barn only 10-15 minutes from the trails. The trails are relaxing with very few people hiking. She and Rocket enjoy riding along the creek or ponds and watching the birds. She has loved nature ever since she was a child and seeing wildlife from the saddle is always fun! Every time she sees the Stark Parks Maintenance Crew out on the trails, she thanks them for keeping the trails clear for everyone to enjoy.

Greg Monstanty, the second place winner started out riding when he was in his forties and has been riding for over 20 years. As most new horse owners, he tried different horse disciplines and did pleasure shows, barrel and poles and finally decided on doing competitive trail/ endurance. Which he did for six years with his half-Arabian before switching to just trail riding. He currently has a half-

Arabian mare and a Mustang gelding. Greg has ridden many of the trails in NE Ohio and says Stark Parks bridle trails remains one of my favorites because of the variety and beauty. He enjoys the easy trails at Quail Hollow to the picturesque trails along Walborn Resevoir. The Towpath trail and the Muskingum Trail offer many miles of all-weather trails with their own challenges of bicycles, joggers and trains. Stark Parks best trails in his opinion are the Sandy Valley Trail and the Whitacre Greer for the hills and vistas. As equestrians we should be thankful for the large variety of bridle trails available to us.

Kathy Sailer was injured while riding her horse Jaz on the Towpath on the upper part that goes out to Shepler Church Road. A very rude bicyclist came flying up behind Jaz, her most steady and solid trail horse and scared her so badly that she jumped to the side and Kathy’s thigh got caught on the saddle horn. All she heard before he darted into view from behind was a whirring sound and she is sure he scared her on purpose. Kathy fell off and her horse turned around and took off running all the way back to the barn at Merry Ridge on Shepler Church. Kathy does not know how many people Jazz ran over or scared to death as she was galloping full bore down the towpath back to the barn. She looked up at the guy as he was riding quickly away and she yelled, “Thanks a lot!” He yelled back, “It’s your fault!” Kathy was riding in the proper place on the Towpath on the berm to the left as she was headed south. He never even stopped to see if she was alright. She could have laid there bleeding internally, unconscious, with broken bones or worse. Fortunately, she was right on the Canal Bend Trail, so she limped to the trail head and called her barn owner and he came and picked her up. Her horse was grazing outside the fence from her pasture buddies. Kathy developed a hematoma the size of a softball on the inside of her left thigh, which took about six months to heal. Her entire thigh turned black and blue. Kathy’s sister, Sharon Andrews, contacted Stark Parks about the incident and they suggested she become a TrailBlazer to help work with people who don’t understand how scared horses can get. She became a TrailBlazer to help educate people about safety

around horses, whether they are walking or on a bicycle. She also wanted to report those people who don’t give the right of way to horses or let their dogs run loose or ride motorized vehicles. Kathy used to be a cop which helps being a TrailBlazer. She documents her rides with the Stark Parks Volunteer Coordinator. Since becoming a TrailBlazer, she has helped make the trails safer for everyone and was instrumental in getting signs posted from the Canal Bend north of the Towpath, which are permanent that tell bicyclists and hikers to yield to horses and announce themselves before passing. Kathy and Jaz enjoy visiting the people on the trails and Jaz gets offended if everyone does not stop to pet her. Kathy’s hope is that this will help give people a better image of the horses and riders and help us all respect each other. Have a great year!

SUMMIT

Ice and snow, bitterly frigid winds, subzero temps, dark dismal days, what’s not to love about Ohio winters? Everything, unless you are a skier, snow plow driver, or polar bear looking for new digs along Lake Erie. Don’t despair though, Summit County OHC is already working on two big fundraisers for later this year. The first will be on June 24, our second Annual Poker Run. Don’t miss this opportunity to ride the refurbished horse trails of this former Girl Scout Camp. Ladies, be a kid again; the uniform is definitely a lost cause but wear your Girl Scout Sash as a headband. There will be food, prizes and excitement so keep watching the Corral and Facebook for more details and your chance to sign up.

If it takes a while to build up your saddle seat for longer rides, we have a camping weekend at Mohican Oct. 6-8. This is always a great chance to get out there and enjoy the cooler fall temperatures and great scenery. Whether winding up the camping season or your first time to spend the weekend with your horse, join us for a memorable experience. You won’t be disappointed.

Forty-five people attended our joint Winter Banquet with Medina OHC. The tables were set by Catherine Matonis’ nods to spring with bowls of submerged

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which allows us to purchase goods from them and then redeem bonus points for merchandize or gift certificates. It is a win-win for everyone. All too soon it was time to wrap up festivities and return the hall as we found it. We were truly blessed with a beautiful and safe drive home because the storm which came in the wee hours Sunday morning would have made for dangerous walking, let alone driving conditions. Finally, from all of us we would like to thank everyone from both chapters who organized, managed and planned this event, as well as the caterer, presenters, decorators, setup, teardown and cleanup crew because we could not have done it without all of you. Listing everyone by name would have taken up my whole column. (2023 Officers picture L-R, Joann Ulichney Secretary; Catherine Matonis President; Carolyn Sullivan Treasurer; Molly Eastwood VP.)

~Joann

TUSCARAWAS

woodland moss, twinkling lights and live hyacinth centers. Throughout the hall were just enough iridescent snowflakes to reflect the clear night sky outside. The social hour gave everyone a chance to relax and get reacquainted. Carolyn Sullivan provided a revolving slide show of our SCOHC history over the past 15 years as a backdrop to see just how far we have come and all who contributed along the way. Also, Marietta Tromp presented the best two minutes and 28 second short film titled Handling Horse Encounters in CVNP. Marietta made sure the six golden rules were easy for all to understand and the points were demonstrated by members with their animals. We retired to a buffet of generous proportions and savored the fine fare. The meal was capped off with Debbie Donner’s artful cake with the chapters’ OHC emblem and horse shoe shaped center. Next, the awards portion was hosted by Amy O’Neil. Both clubs presented members with prizes and/or gift certificates for their 2022 trail miles turned in and volunteer/service accomplishments. Of course, we have Big Dee’s Tack and Vet Supply in Streetsboro to thank for supporting those efforts with their points incentive program

Our Tuscarawas County OHC members meet for a monthly dinner meeting on the second Monday, at 7 p.m. Contact a member for the location, as we like diversity of venues. We welcome new members! Happy Trails.

WARREN

We tried to have our member appreciation dinner in January. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other ideas. The roads were not good, so Paul wisely made the decision to call it off. We’re going to try again for March 12. Hopefully we have a better chance of success then, though you never know. We did have to postpone the GTE one year due to a snow storm, so anything could happen. But at least the odds are in our favor in March.

Of course, the following week will be our Great Tack Exchange. It used to be on the second weekend of March, but a scheduling conflict moved it last year to the third weekend, and it was decided that not having it on the day we lose an hour of sleep is a great thing. Especially for those that have to get there at five or six in the morning! With the bigger building in Greene County, we have many more vendors, so many more

opportunities to find whatever you need. This is an immense effort, so if anyone is interested in volunteering, I’m sure there are still openings. You don’t have to commit for the whole time, so you still have time to shop. But if you would be interested in being a door guard for a couple hours, that really helps. You can find more information on greattackexchange.webs.com, or call Judy at 513/409-1344. I enjoy volunteering; you get a chance to talk to a lot of people. And of course, the food booth makes it worth the trip in itself.

Belinda has spearheaded an effort to have a one day ride each month (weather permitting) at various parks. You’ll find the information on our Facebook page and it should arrive on your calendar as well. I’m hoping to make it to most of them; Cooper and I need to get busy! The exercise is good for both of us.

Our Over the Hill Gang is not having much luck so far. The first two work days were cancelled as the trails were way too muddy, though Roger and Rick did manage to replace the mounting

block by the cemetery, and tidy up there, as that was right off of the pavement so it was easy to get to. Then the third work day was cancelled due to the cold! And as I write this, it looks very doubtful we’ll make it to the fourth scheduled work day due to wet trails, although there may be a chance to do a few things in the campground. We’ll keep trying. I’m sure there are trees down, with some of the winds we’ve had, but we see no reason to tear up the trails to get to them. We’ll just have to fix them later.

That’s it for this month, I hope to see a lot of you at the Great Tack Exchange.

WASHINGTON

Hello horse friends! We have some news in our club. First, we are growing, we have several new members in recent months and we are happy to have each one and say welcome! Second, we have moved our meeting date from the first Thursday of the month (which it has been since we started,) to the first Tuesday of each month. This was necessary due to the other users of the church we use for our meetings. Our meetings are held at Christ United Methodist Church, 301 Wooster Street, 7 p.m. We are grateful for their continued grace in allowing us to meet there! Third, we are getting busy with many activities. In addition to riding, we are planning several trips and non-horse activities this summer, and of course, we invite you to join us. More details as the plans are firmed up!

It is getting close to the magic day we can go out and ride on State and National trails again. In addition to getting our horses, tack, and vehicles ready, many of us are thinking about our trails. The ones we have taken on the responsibility of trail maintenance. We will use our time, spend our money and expend out effort to go out while it is still cold and damp to get the trails ready for the first day of the riding season at our home trail. Yes, it is for our own good we do it. It gives us a place to ride, but it is for some much more. In Washington County, the Kinderhook Trails in Wayne National Forest are our home trails. We know we have hikers from many states who visit us. We have horse riders from other counties and states

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come to our little known and out of the way trail head to ride. We are cognizant that without our efforts and influence with Wayne National Forest there wouldn’t be a trail at all. We know without our work and partnership with Wayne National Forest the trails would be closed and forgotten. So, while it is still cold and damp out, we will be out there clearing trails and digging ditches and do whatever it takes to get the trails ready for April 1. Yes, we know not everyone will approve of our work. We realize not everyone will help; some can’t and some won’t. We understand our hands are tied by the rules governing the National Forests to do all we would like to do, yet we will do all we can. To ride is a privilege. Our efforts have earned ourselves and others the privilege of riding at Kinderhook. So come ride with us, enjoy our efforts. We will try to come ride at your home trail and we will be appreciative of your efforts. After all, we are horsemen helping horsemen!

Hope to meet you on the trails this summer.

WAYNE

What is that bright orb up in the sky? Could it be the sun? Even though Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow and predicted six more weeks of winter, the Wayne County OHC is planning a great summer full of camp outs and day rides. Twenty people met at the Plain Lutheran Church in Wooster for a potluck lunch for a trail ride/camp out planning meeting. Both the food and company were great. Rides and campouts start in March and will continue through October. For a full ride and camp out schedule, please contact Leigh Litman, secretary of the Wayne County Chapter. Although the Regional Ride scheduled for the July 4 weekend last year had to be cancelled, we are looking forward to a great camp out this year as we have been granted a five-day permit for the Regional Ride this year!

We also had a surprise baby shower during the meeting for member Rachel Gardner and her husband, Wyatt, as they anticipate the birth of their daughter. We are looking

forward to having Rachel back in the saddle and on the trail with us next summer as well as little Ellen and Wyatt in camp.

We reflected on 2022 and what a remarkable year it had been. We started off anticipating many campouts and Tuesday night/ noon rides at Mohican, only to have Mother Nature dash our plans. The volunteer hours spent cleaning up Mohican and Malabar totaled 950 for Mohican and 363 at Malabar for a total of 1,312 hours for the year. We know many other clubs put in yeoman’s work as well to help the forest and parks recover from the summer storm season.

Even though many volunteer hours were put in at Mohican and Malabar, many found time to ride at other parks in the state. Total mileage/saddle hours for the club were 8,965 miles. Saddle/driving hours totaled 790 miles.

Individual mileage award winners were: Hope Ashby, most improved milage from 2021; Sue Baker, most places ridden; Charlene Schnarr, Pam Miller, Trudy Schmidt and Jennie Bower, hours in on time; Jett Scarbrough and Briana Ramsier, Youth awards. See you on the trails and in camp soon!

WOOD

We had a dry spell and there was nothing to report last month. Since then, we had our yearly Christmas party and finalized our 2023 ride schedule. April 20-23 is Waterloo, Mich., at Farmlane, May 4-7 is at Tar Hollow, May 18-21 is at Pontiac Lake, Mich., and May 26-29 is Memorial Day weekend at Van Buren. The full schedule for our members is on our Facebook page.

Our top five riders for 2022 are Deta Miller with 775 miles, Diane Joseph with 620 miles, Jo Saam with 537 miles, Dawn Gomez with 518 miles, and Matt Saam with 510 miles.

Our officers all remained for another year. We have much more

trail work to be done thanks to our State OHC grant money and some significant donations. Now just to work it in with the weather and our volunteers free time!

The only one riding that I know of is Savanah Ley doing saddle hours for show season in an indoors practice arena. Good going Savanah, I see on Facebook you have a new horse to add to your regime.

Hang in there, warmer weather will be here soon.